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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/11369-0.txt b/11369-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..681692c --- /dev/null +++ b/11369-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,1541 @@ +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11369 *** + +THE MIRROR OF LITERATURE, AMUSEMENT, AND INSTRUCTION. + +VOL. X, NO. 280.] SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1827. [PRICE 2d. + + + + + +Illustrations of Shakspeare. + + * * * * * + +NO. XIII. ELSINEUR, FROM HAMLET'S GARDEN. + + * * * * * + + +[Illustration: ELSINEUR, FROM HAMLET'S GARDEN.] + + +We augur that the above will prove one of the most interesting of our +Shakspearian Illustrations, inasmuch as the garden where Hamlet was +wont to revel in the fitful dreams of his philosophic melancholy, is +holy ground. "The lapse of ages and the fables of the poet," says a +delighted visiter, "were all lost in the reality of Shakspeare's +painting: the moment of his scene seemed present with me; and eager to +traverse every part of this consecrated ground, I had already followed +Hamlet every where; I had measured the deep shadows of the platform, +encountered the grey ghost of the Royal Dane, had killed Polonius in +the queen's closet, and drowned poor Ophelia in the willowed stream. +The modern aspect of Elsineur is, however, far from inviting, and not +a single vestige presents itself that bears the smallest trace of this +town ever having been hallowed by the mausoleum of an Ophelia, or +proudly decorated with the stately walls of a royal palace." + +About a mile from the town is a place that bears the name of Hamlet's +garden. Here is no relic of ancient interest, excepting the tradition, +which affirms that to be the spot where once stood the Danish palace, +and where was enacted that tragedy, which has been so gloriously +immortalized by the genius of our great dramatic bard. + +The present edifice is erected on the brow of a gently rising hill, +the summit of which is gained by means of a winding walk cut through a +small shrubbery. In the surrounding prospect, the town of Elsineur, on +the plain beneath, presents itself ill-built, red, and without any +public building, or spire, to vary its sameness. Far to the left of +the city stands the castle of Kronenberg, a bold and fine feature; +the waves of the Cattegut roll at its feet; and are bounded on the +opposite side by the Swedish coast. When the annexed sketch was made, +400 sail of merchants' ships were lying there at anchor, which added +greatly to the interest of the picture. The small village on the +distant shore is Elsenberg. The forest of Kronenberg is indeed proudly +situated; the form of the building, with its spires and minarets, is +nobly picturesque; the fabric is of grey stone; and its innumerable +windows, varied towers, and other architectural ornaments, make it a +striking and beautiful contrast to the dull uniformity of the town. + +Sir Robert Ker Porter, in his visit to this sacred spot, collected +a few interesting circumstances at the fountain-head, relating to +Shakspeare's northern hero, from the very source whence our poet must +have drawn the incidents of his tragedy, viz. the "Annals of Denmark," +written by Saxo Grammaticus in the twelfth century. The work is in +Latin, and in our next number we intend inserting a short abstract of +Hamlet's story. It will be curious to compare the dialogues of the +original with their counterpart in the play. + + + * * * * * + + +ON THE APPEARANCE OF AN AURORA BOREALIS, ON THE NIGHT OF THE 25TH OF +SEPTEMBER. + +BY A LADY IN HER THIRTEENTH YEAR. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + + What may this mean? this ruddy blaze of light, + Breaking effulgent through the stilly night; + Darting its blood-red form along the sky, + Glowing with heaven's glorious majesty. + How with its phalaxy of rays unfurl'd, + It comes: its radiance circling all our mother world. + The pharos of the night; where gods might dance. + Heedless of mortals dull, unmeaning trance; + Where spirits in their mysteries might find, + A sail to float upon the yielding wind; + But see, it flies, its shadow; form outspread, + In fainting radiance o'er earth's startled bed, + Yet rests, like the death gleam of beauty's eye, + Or last rich tint of an autumnal sky. + And now in fleecy clouds the heav'ns appear. + Again it darts, dreamer, there's naught to fear; + Again, like a proud spirit of the sky, + Though conquer'd, breaking forth in majesty. + Britain, for thee this fearful warning sent, + Oh! mock not foolishly its dire portent; + For now that vice on all her malice wreaks, + Charms on the stage, and in the assembly speaks; + Now that with cheating fires she shameless dares, + Fortunate where virtue once defied her snares; + Again I say, for thee this warning sent, + Oh! mark it well, mock not its dire portent. + +F.J.H. + + * * * * * + + + + +THE SELECTOR, + +AND + +LITERARY NOTICES OF _NEW WORKS_. + + + * * * * * + + +CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. + +(_By the author of Waverley_.) + + +[We have the pleasure of submitting to our readers, (almost entire,) +one of the stories of the forthcoming _Chronicles of the Canongate_, +it being the second narrative, and the last in the first volume, and +as well as the others, founded on true incidents. The _Chronicles_ +are domestic tales; but the _Two Drovers_ should not be taken as a +specimen of the work. Slender as are its incidents, it proves that +"Richard (or Walter) is himself again," for in no vein of writing is +the author of Waverley more felicitous than in delineating scenes of +actual life, splendid as are his narratives of the fairy scenes and +halls of romance: and in the prevailing taste for this description of +writing, we think the Chronicles of the Canongate bid fair to enjoy +popularity equal to any of Sir Walter's previous productions.] + + +_The Two Drovers_. + +It was the day after the Doune Fair when my story commences. It had +been a brisk market, several dealers had attended from the northern +and midland counties in England, and the English money had flown so +merrily about as to gladden the hearts of the Highland farmers. Many +large droves were about to set off for England, under the protection +of their owners, or of the topsmen whom they employed in the tedious, +laborious and responsible office of driving the cattle for many +hundred miles, from the market where they had been purchased, to the +fields or farm-yards where they were to be fattened for the shambles. + +Of the number who left Doune in the morning, and with the purpose we +have described, not a _Glunamie_ of them all cocked his bonnet more +briskly, or gartered his tartan hose under knee over a pair of more +promising _spiogs_ (legs), than did Robin Oig M'Combich, called +familiarly Robin Oig, that is Young, or the Lesser, Robin. Though +small of stature, as the epithet Oig implies, and not very strongly +limbed, he was as light and alert as one of the deer of his mountains. +He had an elasticity of step, which, in the course of a long march, +made many a stout fellow envy him; and the manner in which he busked +his plaid and adjusted his bonnet, argued a consciousness that so +smart a John Highlandman as himself would not pass unnoticed among the +Lowland lasses. The ruddy cheek, red lips, and white teeth, set off a +countenance which had gained by exposure to the weather, a healthful +and hardy rather than a rugged hue. If Robin Oig did not laugh, +or even smile frequently, as indeed is not the practice among his +countrymen, his bright eyes usually gleamed from under his bonnet +with an expression of cheerfulness ready to be turned into mirth. + +The departure of Robin Oig was an incident in the little town, in +and near which he had many friends male and female. He was a topping +person in his way, transacted considerable business on his own behalf, +and was intrusted by the best farmers in the Highlands, in preference +to any other drover in that district. He might have increased his +business to any extent had he condescended to manage it by deputy; but +except a lad or two, sister's sons of his own, Robin rejected the idea +of assistance, conscious, perhaps how much his reputation depended +upon his attending in person to the practical discharge of his duty +in every instance. He remained, therefore, contented with the highest +premium given to persons of his description, and comforted himself +with the hopes that a few journeys to England might enable him to +conduct business on his own account, in a manner becoming his birth. +For Robin Oig's father, Lachlan M'Combich, (or, _son of my friend_, +his actual clan surname being M'Gregor,) had been so called by the +celebrated Rob Roy, because of the particular friendship which had +subsisted between the grandsire of Robin and that renowned cateran. +Some people even say, that Robin Oig derived his Christian name from a +man, as renowned in the wilds of Lochlomond, as ever was his namesake +Robin Hood, in the precincts of merry Sherwood. "Of such ancestry," +as James Boswell says, "who would not be proud?" Robin Oig was proud +accordingly; but his frequent visits to England and to the Lowlands +had given him tact enough to know that pretensions, which still gave +him a little right to distinction in his own lonely glen, might be +both obnoxious and ridiculous if preferred elsewhere. The pride of +birth, therefore, was like the miser's treasure, the secret subject of +his contemplation, but never exhibited to strangers as a subject of +boasting. + +Many were the words of gratulation and goodluck which were bestowed on +Robin Oig. The judges commended his drove, especially the best of them, +which were Robin's own property. Some thrust out their snuff-mulls for +the parting pinch--others tendered the _doch-an-dorrach_, or parting +cup. All cried--"Good-luck travel out with you and come home with +you.--Give you luck in the Saxon market--brave notes in the +_leabhar-dhu_, (black pocket-book,) and plenty of English gold in the +_sporran_ (pouch of goat-skin.)" + +The bonny lasses made their adieus more modestly, and more than one, +it was said, would have given her best brooch to be certain that it +was upon her that his eye last rested as he turned towards his road. + +Robin Oig had just given the preliminary "_Hoo-hoo!_" to urge forward +the loiterers of the drove, when there was a cry behind him. + +"Stay, Robin--bide a blink. Here is Janet of Tomahourich--auld Janet, +your father's sister." + +"Plague on her, for an auld Highland witch and spaewife," said a +farmer from the Carse of Stirling; "she'll cast some of her cantrips +on the cattle." + +"She canna do that," said another sapient of the same +profession--"Robin Oig is no the lad to leave any of them, without +tying Saint Mungo's knot on their tails, and that will put to her +speed the best witch that ever flew over Dimayet upon a broomstick." + +It may not be indifferent to the reader to know, that the Highland +cattle are peculiarly liable to be _taken_, or infected, by spells and +witchcraft, which judicious people guard against by knitting knots of +peculiar complexity on the tuft of hair which terminates the animal's +tail. + +But the old woman who was the object of the farmer's suspicion, seemed +only busied about the drover, without paying any attention to the +flock. Robin, on the contrary, appeared rather impatient of her +presence. + +"What auld-world fancy," he said, "has brought you so early from the +ingle-side this morning, Muhme? I am sure I bid you good even, and had +your God-speed, last night." + +"And left me more siller than the useless old woman will use till you +come back again, bird of my bosom," said the sibyl. "But it is little +I would care for the food that nourishes me, or the fire that warms +me, or for God's blessed sun itself, if aught but weal should happen +to the grandson of my father. So let me walk the _deasil_ round you, +that you may go safe out into the far foreign land, and come safe +home." + +Robin Oig stopped, half embarrassed, half laughing, and signing to +those around that he only complied with the old woman to soothe her +humour. In the meantime, she traced around him, with wavering steps, +the propitiation, which some have thought has been derived from the +Druidical mythology. It consists, as is well known, in the person who +makes the _deasil_, walking three times round the person who is the +object of the ceremony, taking care to move according to the course +of the sun. At once, however, she stopped short, and exclaimed, in a +voice of alarm and horror, "Grandson of my father, there is blood on +your hand." "Hush, for God's sake, aunt," said Robin Oig; "you will +bring more trouble on yourself with this Taishataragh (second sight) +than you will be able to get out of for many a day." + +The old woman only repeated, with a ghastly look, "There is blood on +your hand, and it is English blood. The blood of the Gael is richer +and redder. Let us see--let us--" + +Ere Robin Oig could prevent her, which, indeed, could only have been +by positive violence, so hasty and peremptory were her proceedings, +she had drawn from his side the dirk which lodged in the folds of his +plaid, and held it up, exclaiming, although the weapon gleamed clear +and bright in the sun, "Blood, blood--Saxon blood again. Robin Oig +M'Combich, go not this day to England!" + +"Prutt, trutt," answered Robin Oig, "that will never do neither--it +would be next thing to running the country. For shame, Muhme--give me +the dirk. You cannot tell by the colour the difference betwixt the +blood of a black bullock and a white one, and you speak of knowing +Saxon from Gaelic blood. All men have their blood from Adam, Muhme. +Give me my skenedhu, and let me go on my road. I should have been half +way to Stirling brig by this time--Give me my dirk, and let me go." + +"Never will I give it to you," said the old woman--"Never will I quit +my hold on your plaid, unless you promise me not to wear that unhappy +weapon." + +The women around him urged him also, saying few of his aunt's words +fell to the ground; and as the Lowland farmers continued to look +moodily on the scene, Robin Oig determined to close it at any +sacrifice. + +"Well, then," said the young drover, giving the scabbard of the weapon +to Hugh Morrison, "you Lowlanders care nothing for these freats. Keep +my dirk for me. I cannot give it you, because it was my father's; but +your drove follows ours, and I am content it should be in your +keeping, not in mine. Will this do, Muhme?" + +"It must", said the old woman--"that is, if the Lowlander is mad +enough to carry the knife." + +The strong westlandman laughed aloud. + +"Good wife," said he, "I am Hugh Morrison from Glenae, come of the +Manly Morrisons of auld langsyne, that never took short weapon against +a man in their lives. And neither needed they; they had their +broadswords, and I have this bit supple (showing a formidable +cudgel)--for dirking ower the board, I leave that to John Highlandman. +Ye needna snort, none of you Highlanders, and you in especial, Robin. +I'll keep the bit knife, if you are feared for the auld spae-wife's +tale, and give it back to you whenever you want it." + +Robin was not particularly pleased with some part of Hugh Morrison's +speech; but he had learned in his travels more patience than belonged +to his Highland constitution originally, and he accepted the service +of the descendant of the Manly Morrisons, without finding fault with +the rather depreciating manner in which it was offered. + +"If he had not had his morning in his head, and been but a +Dumfries-shire hog into the boot, he would have spoken more like a +gentleman. But you cannot have more of a sow but a grumph. It's a +shame my father's knife should ever slash a haggis for the like of +him." + +Thus saying, (but saying it in Gaelic,) Robin drove on his cattle, and +waved farewell to all behind him. He was in the greater haste, because +he expected to join at Falkirk a comrade and brother in profession, +with whom he proposed to travel in company. + +Robin Oig's chosen friend was a young Englishman, Harry Wakefield by +name, well known at every northern market, and in his way as much +famed and honoured as our Highland driver of bullocks. He was nearly +six feet high, gallantly formed to keep the rounds at Smithfield, or +maintain the ring at a wrestling-match; and although he might have +been overmatched, perhaps, among the regular professors of the Fancy, +yet as a chance customer, he was able to give a bellyful to any +amateur of the pugilistic art. Doncaster races saw him in his glory, +betting his guinea, and generally successfully; nor was there a main +fought in Yorkshire, the feeders being persons of celebrity, at which +he was not to be seen, if business permitted. But though a _sprack_ +lad, and fond of pleasure and its haunts, Harry Wakefield was steady, +and not the cautious Robin Oig M'Combich himself was more attentive to +the main chance. His holidays were holidays indeed; but his days of +work were dedicated to steady and persevering labour. In countenance +and temper, Wakefield was the model of Old England's merry yeomen, +whose clothyard shafts, in so many hundred battles, asserted her +superiority over the nations, and whose good sabres, in our own time, +are her cheapest and most assured defence. His mirth was readily +excited; for, strong in limb and constitution, and fortunate in +circumstances, he was disposed to be pleased with every thing about +him; and such difficulties as he might occasionally encounter, were, +to a man of his energy, rather matter of amusement than serious +annoyance. With all the merits of a sanguine temper, our young English +drover was not without his defects. He was irascible, and sometimes to +the verge of being quarrelsome; and perhaps not the less inclined to +bring his disputes to a pugilistic decision, because he found few +antagonists able to stand up to him in the boxing-ring. + +It is difficult to say how Henry Wakefield and Robin Oig first became +intimates; but it is certain a close acquaintance had taken place +betwixt them, although they had apparently few common topics of +conversation or of interest, so soon as their talk ceased to be of +bullocks. Robin Oig, indeed, spoke the English language rather +imperfectly upon any other topics but stots and kyloes, and Harry +Wakefield could never bring his broad Yorkshire tongue to utter a +single word of Gaelic. It was in vain Robin spent a whole morning, +during a walk over Minch-Moor, in attempting to teach his companion to +utter, with true precision, the shibboleth _Llhu_, which is the Gaelic +for a calf. + +The pair of friends had traversed with their usual cordiality the +grassy wilds of Liddesdale, and crossed the opposite part of +Cumberland, emphatically called the Waste. In these solitary regions, +the cattle under the charge of our drovers subsisted themselves +cheaply, by picking their food as they went along the drove-road, or +sometimes by the tempting opportunity of a _start and owerloup_, or +invasion of the neighbouring pasture, where an occasion presented +itself. But now the scene changed before them; they were descending +towards a fertile and enclosed country, where no such liberties could +be taken with impunity, or without a previous arrangement and bargain +with the possessors of the ground. This was more especially the case, +as a great northern fair was upon the eve of taking place, where both +the Scotch and English drover expected to dispose of a part of their +cattle, which it was desirable to produce in the market, rested and in +good order. Fields were therefore difficult to be obtained, and only +upon high terms. This necessity occasioned a temporary separation +betwixt the two friends, who went to bargain, each as he could, for +the separate accommodation of his herd. Unhappily it chanced that both +of them, unknown to each other, thought of bargaining for the ground +they wanted on the property of a country gentleman of some fortune, +whose estate lay in the neighbourhood. The English drover applied to +the bailiff on the property, who was known to him. It chanced that the +Cumbrian Squire, who had entertained some suspicions of his manager's +honesty, was taking occasional measures to ascertain how far they were +well founded, and had desired that any inquiries about his enclosures, +with a view to occupy them for a temporary purpose, should be referred +to himself. As, however, Mr. Ireby had gone the day before upon a +journey of some miles distance to the northward, the bailiff chose +to consider the check upon his full powers as for the time removed, +and concluded that he should best consult his master's interest +and perhaps his own, in making an agreement with Harry Wakefield. +Meanwhile, ignorant of what his comrade was doing, Robin Oig, on his +side, chanced to be overtaken by a well-looked smart little man upon a +pony, most knowingly hogged and cropped, as was then the fashion, the +rider wearing tight leather breeches, and long-necked bright spurs. +This cavalier asked one or two pertinent questions about markets and +the price of stock. So Donald, seeing him a well-judging, civil +gentleman, took the freedom to ask him whether he could let him know +if there was any grass-land to be let in that neighbourhood, for the +temporary accommodation of his drove. He could not have put the +question to more willing ears. The gentleman of the buckskins was the +proprietor, with whose bailiff Harry Wakefield had dealt, or was in +the act of dealing. + +"Thou art in good luck, my canny Scot," said Mr. Ireby, "to have +spoken to me, for I see thy cattle have done their day's work, and I +have at my disposal the only field within three miles that is to be +let in these parts." + +"The drove can pe gang two, three, four miles very pratty weel +indeed--" said the cautious Highlander; "put what would his honour pe +axing for the peasts pe the head, if she was to tak the park for twa +or three days?" + +"We wont differ, Sawney, if you let me have six stots for winterers, +in the way of reason." + +"And which peasts wad your honour pe for having?" + +"Why--let me see--the two black--the dun one--yon doddy--him with the +twisted horn--and brockit--How much by the head?" + +"Ah," said Robin, "your honour is a shudge--a real shudge--I couldna +have set off the pest six peasts petter myself, me that ken them as if +they were my pairns, puir things." + +"Well, how much per head, Sawney," continued Mr. Ireby. + +"It was high markets at Doune and Falkirk," answered Robin. + +And thus the conversation proceeded, until they had agreed on the +_prix juste_ for the bullocks, the Squire throwing in the temporary +accommodation of the enclosure for the cattle into the boot, and Robin +making, as he thought, a very good bargain, providing the grass was +but tolerable. The Squire walked his pony alongside of the drove, +partly to show him the way, and see him put into possession of the +field, and partly to learn the latest news of the northern markets. + +They arrived at the field, and the pasture seemed excellent. But what +was their surprise when they saw the bailiff quietly inducting the +cattle of Harry Wakefield into the grassy Goshen which had just been +assigned to those of Robin Oig M'Combich by the proprietor himself. +Squire Ireby set spurs to his horse, dashed up to his servant, and +learning what had passed between the parties, briefly informed the +English drover that his bailiff had let the ground without his +authority, and that he might seek grass for his cattle wherever he +would, since he was to get none there. At the same time he rebuked his +servant severely for having transgressed his commands, and ordered him +instantly to assist in ejecting the hungry and weary cattle of Harry +Wakefield, which were just beginning to enjoy a meal of unusual +plenty, and to introduce those of his comrade, whom the English drover +now began to consider as a rival. + +The feelings which arose in Wakefield's mind, would have induced him +to resist Mr. Ireby's decision; but every Englishman has a tolerably +accurate sense of law and justice, and John Fleecebumpkin, the +bailiff, having acknowledged that he had exceeded his commission, +Wakefield saw nothing else for it than to collect his hungry and +disappointed charge, and drive them on to seek quarters elsewhere. +Robin Oig saw what had happened with regret, and hastened to offer +to his English friend to share with him the disputed possession. But +Wakefield's pride was severely hurt, and he answered disdainfully, +"Take it all man--take it all--never make two bites of a cherry--thou +canst talk over the gentry, and blear a plain man's eye--Out upon you, +man--I would not kiss any man's dirty latchets for leave to bake in +his oven." + +Robin Oig, sorry but not surprised at his comrade's displeasure, +hastened to entreat his friend to wait but an hour till he had gone +to the Squire's house to receive payment for the cattle he had sold, +and he would come back and help him to drive the cattle into some +convenient place of rest, and explain to him the whole mistake they +had both of them fallen into. But the Englishman continued indignant: +"Thou hast been selling, hast thou? Ay, ay--thou is a cunning lad for +kenning the hours of bargaining. Go to the devil with thyself, for I +will ne'er see thy fause loon's visage again--thou should be ashamed +to look me in the face." + +"I am ashamed to look no man in the face," said Robin Oig, something +moved; "and, moreover, I will look you in the face this blessed day, +if you will bide at the Clachan down yonder." + +"Mayhap you had as well keep away," said his comrade; and turning his +back on his former friend, he collected his unwilling associates, +assisted by the bailiff, who took some real and some affected interest +in seeing Wakefield accommodated. + +After spending some time in negotiating with more than one of the +neighbouring farmers, who could not, or would not, afford the +accommodation desired, Henry Wakefield, at last, and in his necessity, +accomplished his point by means of the landlord of the alehouse at which +Robin Oig and he had agreed to pass the night, when they first separated +from each other. Mine host was content to let him turn his cattle on a +piece of barren moor, at a price little less than the bailiff had asked +for the disputed enclosure; and the wretchedness of the pasture, as well +as the price paid for it, were set down as exaggerations of the breach +of faith and friendship of his Scottish crony. This turn of Wakefield's +passions was encouraged by the bailiff (who had his own reasons for +being offended against poor Robin, as having been the unwitting cause of +his falling into disgrace with his master), as well as by the innkeper, +and two or three chance guests, who soothed the drover in his resentment +against his quondam associate,--some from the ancient grudge against the +Scots, which, when it exists any where, is to be found lurking in the +Border counties, and some from the general love of mischief, which +characterizes mankind in all ranks of life, to the honour of Adam's +children be it spoken. Good John Barleycorn also, who always heightens +and exaggerates the prevailing passions, be they angry or kindly, was +not wanting in his offices on this occasion; and confusion to false +friends and hard masters, was pledged in more than one tankard. + +In the meanwhile, Mr. Ireby found some amusement in detaining the +northern drover at his ancient hall. He caused a cold round of beef +to be placed before the Scot in the butler's pantry, together with a +foaming tankard of home-brewed, and took pleasure in seeing the hearty +appetite with which these unwonted edibles were discussed by Robin Oig +M'Combich. The squire himself lighting his pipe, compounded between his +patrician dignity and his love of agricultural gossip, by walking up and +down while he conversed with his guest. + +"I passed another drove," said the squire, with one of your countrymen +behind them, they were something less beasts than your drove--doddies +most of them; a big man was with them--none of your kilts though, but +a decent pair of breeches;--d'ye know who he may be?" + +"Hout ay--that might, could, and would pe Hughie Morrison--I didna +think he could hae peen sae weel up. He has made a day on us; put his +Argyle-shires will have wearied shanks. How far was he pehind?" + +"I think about six or seven miles," answered the squire, "for I passed +them at the Christenbury Cragg, and I overtook you at the Hollan Bush. +If his beasts be leg-weary, he will be may be selling bargains." + +"Na, na, Hughie Morrison is no the man for pargains--ye maun come to +some Highland body like Robin Oig hersell for the like of these;--put +I maun be wishing you good night, and twenty of them, let alane ane, +and I maun down to the Clachan to see if the lad Henry Waakfelt is out +of his humdudgeons yet." + +The party at the alehouse were still in full talk, and the treachery +of Robin Oig still the theme of conversation, when the supposed +culprit entered the apartment. His arrival, as usually happens in +such a case, put an instant stop to the discussion of which he had +furnished the subject, and he was received by the company assembled +with that chilling silence, which more than a thousand exclamations +tells an intruder that he is unwelcome. Surprised and offended, but +not appalled by the reception which he experienced, Robin entered with +an undaunted, and even a haughty air, attempted no greeting as he saw +he was received with none, and placed himself by the side of the fire, +a little apart from a table, at which Harry Wakefield, the bailiff, +and two or three other persons, were seated. The ample Cumbrian +kitchen would have afforded plenty of room even for a larger +separation. + +Robin, thus seated, proceeded to light his pipe, and call for a pint +of twopenny. + +"We have no twopenny ale," answered Ralph Heskett, the landlord; but +as thou find'st thy own tobacco, its like thou may'st find thine own +liquor too--it's the wont of thy country, I wot." + +"Shame, goodman," said the landlady, a blithe, bustling housewife, +hastening herself to suply the guest with liquor--"Thou knowest well +enow what the strange man wants, and it's thy trade to be a civil man. +Thou shouldest know, that if the Scot likes a small pot, he pays a +sure penny." + +Without taking any notice of this nuptial dialogue, the Highlander +took the flagon in his hand, and, addressing the company generally, +drank the interesting toast of "Good markets," to the party assembled. + +"The better that the wind blew fewer dealers from the north," said one +of the farmers, and fewer Highland runts to eat up the English +meadows." + +"Soul of my pody, put you are wrang there, my friend," answered Robin, +with composure, "it is your fat Englishmen that eat up our Scots +cattle, puir things." + +"I wish there was a summat to eat up their drovers," said another; +"a plain Englishman canna make bread within a kenning of them." + +"Or an honest servant keep his master's favour, but they will come +sliding in between him and the sunshine," said the bailiff. + +"If these pe jokes," said Robin Oig, with the same composure, "there +is ower mony jokes upon one man." + +"It is no joke, but downright earnest," said the bailiff. "Harkye, +Mr. Robin Ogg, or whatever is your name, it's right we should tell you +that we are all of one opinion, and that is, that you, Mr. Robin Ogg, +have behaved to our friend, Mr. Harry Wakefield here, like a raff and +a blackguard." + +"Nae doubt, nae doubt," answered Robin with great composure; "and you +are a set of very feeling judges, for whose prains or pehaviour I wad +not gae a pinch of sneeshing. If Mr. Harry Waakfelt kens where he is +wranged, he kens where he may be righted." + +"He speaks truth," said Wakefield, who had listened to what passed, +divided between the offence which he had taken at Robin's late +behaviour, and the revival of his habitual acts of friendship. + +He now rose and went towards Robin, who got up from his seat as he +approached, and held out his hand. + +"That's right, Harry--go it--serve him out!" resounded on all +sides--"tip him the nailer--show him the mill." + +"Hold your peace, all of you, and be----," said Wakefield; and then +addressing his comrade, he took him by the extended hand, with +something alike of respect and defiance. "Robin," he said, "thou hast +used me ill enough this day; but if you mean, like a frank fellow, to +shake hands, and take a tussel for love on the sod, why I'll forgie +thee, man, and we shall be better friends than ever." + +"And would it not pe petter to be cooed friends without more of the +matter?" said Robin; "we will be much petter friendships with our +panes hale than broken." + +Harry Wakefield dropped the hand of his friend, or rather threw it +from him. + +"I did not think I had been keeping company for three years with a +coward." + +"Coward belongs to none of my name," said Robin, whose eyes began to +kindle, but keeping the command of his temper. "It was no coward's +legs or hands, Harry Waakfelt, that drew you out of the fords of +Fried, when you was drifting ower the place rock, and every eel in the +river expected his share of you." + +"And that is true enough, too," said the Englishman, struck by the +appeal. + +"Adzooks!" exclaimed the bailiff--"sure Harry Wakefield, the nattiest +lad at Whitson Tryste, Wooler Fair, Carlisle Sands, or Stagshaw Bank, +is not going to show white feather? Ah, this comes of living so long +with kilts and bonnets--men forget the use of their daddies." + +"I may teach you, Master Fleecebumpkin, that I have not lost the use +of mine," said Wakefield, and then went on. "This will never do, +Robin. We must have a turn-up, or we shall be the talk of the country +side. I'll be d----d if I hurt thee--I'll put on the gloves gin thou +like. Come, stand forward like a man." + +"To pe peaten like a dog," said Robin; "is there any reason in that? +If you think I have done you wrong, I'll go before your shudge, though +I neither know his law nor his language." + +A general cry of "No, no--no law, no lawyer! a bellyful and be +friends," was echoed by the bystanders. + +"But," continued Robin, "if I am to fight, I have no skill to fight +like a jackanapes, with hands and nails." + +"How would you fight then?" said his antagonist; "though I am thinking +it would be hard to bring you to the scratch any how." + +"I would fight with proadswords, and sink point on the first plood +drawn----- like a gentlemans." + +A loud shout of laughter followed the proposal, which indeed had +rather escaped from poor Robin's swelling heart, than been the +dictates of his sober judgment. + +"Gentleman, quotha!" was echoed on all sides, with a shout of +unextinguishable laughter; "a very pretty gentleman, God wot--Canst +get two swords for the gentleman to fight with, Ralph Heskett?" + +"No, but I can send to the armoury at Carlisle, and lend them two +forks to be making shift with in the meantime." + +"Tush, man," said another, "the bonny Scots come into the world with +the blue bonnet on their heads, and dirk and pistol at their belt." + +"Best send post," said Mr. Fleecebumpkin, "to the squire of Corby +Castle to come and stand second to the _gentleman_." + +In the midst of this torrent of general ridicule, the Highlander +instinctively griped beneath the folds of his plaid. + +"But it's better not," he said in his own language. "A hundred curses +on the swine-eaters, who know neither decency nor civility!" + +"Make room, the pack of you," he said, advancing to the door. + +But his former friend interposed his sturdy bulk, and opposed his +leaving the house; and when Robin Oig attempted to make his way by +force, he hit him down on the floor, with as much ease as a boy bowls +down a nine-pin. + +"A ring, a ring!" was now shouted, until the dark rafters, and the +hams that hung on them, trembled again, and the very platters on the +_bink_ clattered against each other. "Well done, Harry."--"Give it him +home, Harry."--"Take care of him now--he sees his own blood!" + +Such were the exclamations, while the Highlander, starting from the +ground, all his coldness and caution lost in frantic rage, sprung at +his antagonist with the fury, the activity, and the vindictive purpose +of an incensed tiger-cat. But when could rage encounter science and +temper? Robin Oig again went down in the unequal contest; and as the +blow was necessarily a severe one, he lay motionless on the floor of +the kitchen. The landlady ran to offer some aid, but Mr. Fleecebumpkin +would not permit her to approach. + +"Let him alone," he said, "he will come to within time, and come up to +the scratch again. He has not got half his broth yet." + +"He has got all I mean to give him though," said his antagonist, whose +heart began to relent towards his old associate; "and I would rather by +half give the rest to yourself, Mr. Fleecebumpkin, for you pretend to +know a thing or two, and Robin had not art enough even to peel before +setting to, but fought with his plaid dangling about him.--Stand up, +Robin, my man! all friends now; and let me hear the man that will speak +a word against you, or your country, for your sake." + +Robin Oig was still under the dominion of his passion, and eager to +renew the onset; but being withheld on the one side by the +peace-making Dame Heskett, and on the other, aware that Wakefield no +longer meant to renew the combat, his fury sunk into gloomy +sullenness. + +"Come, come, never grudge so much at it, man," said the brave-spirited +Englishman, with the placability of his country; "shake hands, and we +will be better friends than ever." + +"Friends!" exclaimed Robin Oig with strong emphasis--"friends!--Never. +Look to yourself, Harry Waakfelt." + +"Then the curse of Cromwell on your proud Scots stomach, as the man +says in the play, and you may do your worst and be d----; for one man +can say nothing more to another after a tussel, than that he is sorry +for it." + +On these terms the friends parted; Robin Oig drew out, in silence, a +piece of money, threw it on the table, and then left the alehouse. But +turning at the door, he shook his hand at Wakefield, pointing with his +fore-finger upwards, in a manner which might imply either a threat or +a caution. He then disappeared in the moonlight. + +(_To be concluded in our next_.) + + * * * * * + + +ARCANA OF SCIENCE. + + +_Sheppey_.--The isle of Sheppey is quickly giving way to the sea, and +if measures are not hereafter taken to remedy this, possibly in a +century or two hence its name may be required to be obliterated from +the map. Whole acres, with houses upon them, have been carried away in +a single storm, while clay shallows, sprinkled with sand and gravel, +which stretch a full mile beyond the verge of the cliff, over which +the sea now sweeps, demonstrate the original area of the island. From +the blue clay of which these cliffs are composed may be culled out +specimens of all the fishes, fruits, and trees, which abounded in +Britain before the birth of Noah; and the traveller may consequently +handle fish which swam, and fruit which grew, in the days of the +antediluvians, all now converted into sound stone, by the petrifying +qualities of the soil in which they are imbedded. Here are lobsters, +crabs, and nautili, presenting almost the same reality as those we now +see crawling and floating about; branches of trees, too, in as perfect +order as when lopped from their parent stems; and trunks of them, +twelve feet in length and two or three diameter, fit, in all +appearance, for the operations of the saw, with great varieties of +fruits, resembling more those of tropical climates than of cold +latitudes like ours, one species having a large kernel, with an +adherent stalk, as complete as when newly plucked from the tree that +produced it. An interesting collection of these relics of a former +world may be seen at a watchmaker's on the cliff, at Margate, +including the most remarkable productions of the isle of Sheppey. + + +_The Camelopard_. + +[Illustration: The Camelopard.] + + +As a live camelopard has been sent to London and another to Paris, the +history and habits of these animals have excited some interest. At a +meeting of the Academy of Sciences in Paris, on the 2nd of July last, M. +Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire observed that naturalists were wrong in supposing +that there was only one species of the camelopard. The animal now in +Paris differs from the Cape of Good Hope species by several essential +anatomical characters, and he proposes to distinguish it by the name of +the _Giraffe of Sennaar_, the country from which it comes. Some natives +of Egypt having come to see the one in Paris in the costume of the +country, the animal gave evident proofs of joy, and loaded them with +caresses. This fact is explained by the circumstance that the Giraffe +has an ardent affection for its Arabian keeper, and that it naturally is +delighted with the sight of the turban and the costume of its keeper. + +Some authors have proved the mildness and docility of the camelopard, +while others represent it as incapable of being tamed. This difference +is ascribed by M. Saint-Hilaire to difference of education. Four or +five years ago a male Giraffe, extremely savage, was brought to +Constantinople. The keeper of the present Giraffe had also the charge +of this one, and he ascribes its savageness entirely to the manner in +which it was treated. At the same time M. Mongez read a memoir on the +testimony of ancient authors respecting the Giraffe. Moses is the +first author who speaks of it. As Aristotle does not mention it, M. +Mongez supposes that it was unknown to the Greeks, and that it did not +then exist in Egypt, otherwise Aristotle, who travelled there, must +have known about it. In the year 708 of Rome, Julius Caesar brought +one to Europe, and the Roman emperors afterwards exhibited them at +Rome, either for the games in the circus, or in their triumphs over +the African princes. Albertus Magnus, in his _Treatise de Animalibus_, +is the first modern author who speaks of the Giraffe. In 1486, one of +the Medici family possessed one at Florence, where it lived for a +considerable time. + +In its native country the Giraffe browses on the twigs of trees, +preferring plants of the Mimosa genus; but it appears that it can +without inconvenience subsist on other vegetable food. The one kept +at Florence fed on the fruits of the country, and chiefly on apples, +which it begged from the inhabitants of the first storeys of the +houses. The one now in Paris, from its having been accustomed in early +life to the food prepared by the Arabs for their camels, is fed on +mixed grains bruised, such as maize, barley, &c., and it is furnished +with milk for drink morning and evening. It however willingly accepts +fruits and the branches of the acacia which are presented to it. It +seizes the leaves with its long rugous and narrow tongue by rolling it +about them, and seems annoyed when it is obliged to take any thing +from the ground, which it seems to do with difficulty. To accomplish +this it stretches first one, then the other of its long fore-legs +asunder, and it is not till after repeated attempts that it is able to +seize the objects with its lips and tongue. + +The pace of the Giraffe is an amble, though when pursued it flies with +extreme rapidity, but the small size of its lungs prevents it from +supporting a lengthened chase. The Giraffe defends itself against the +lion, its principal enemy, with its fore feet, with which it strikes +with such force as often to repulse him. The specimen in the museum at +Paris is about two years and a half old. + +The name _Camelo-pardalis_ (camel-leopard) was given by the Romans to +this animal, from a fancied combination of the characters of the camel +and leopard; but its ancient denomination was _Zurapha_, from which +the name Giraffe has been adopted.--_Brewster's Journal_. + + +_Sugar_. + +About 3,700,000 cwt. of sugar are annually imported from the West +Indies. An advance in price, therefore, of one penny per pound is a +charge on the public of 1,726,600_l._ a year, being more than one-third +of the gross amount of the duty levied at the Custom-house for the +revenue. + + +_Silk_. + +Lord Kingston has upwards of 30,000 mulberry-trees growing upon one +estate in Ireland, and has already sent raw silk into the market. + + * * * * * + + +SINGULAR ASSASSINATION IN KINCARDINESHIRE. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + +The fate of one of the sheriffs of this county, in former times, +merits notice, especially as connected with a ruin in the parish of +Eccliscraig, formerly a place of great strength, being erected on a +perpendicular and peninsulated rock, sixty feet above the sea, at the +mouth of a small rivulet. It was built in consequence of a murder +committed in the reign of James the First, and the circumstance +deserves to be recorded, as it affords a specimen of the barbarity of +the times. Melville, sheriff of Kincardineshire, had, by a vigorous +exercise of his authority, rendered himself so very obnoxious to the +barons of the county, that they had made repeated complaints to the +king. On the last of these occasions the king, in a fit of impatience, +happened to say to Barclay, of Mathers, "I wish that sheriff were +sodden and supped in brue." Barclay instantly withdrew, and reported +to his neighbours the king's words, which they resolved literally +to fulfil. Accordingly, the conspirators invited the unsuspecting +Melville to a hunting party in the forest of Garvock; where, having a +fire kindled, and a cauldron of water boiling on it, they rushed to +the spot, stripped the sheriff naked, and threw him headlong into +the boiling vessel: after which, on pretence of fulfilling the royal +mandate, each swallowed a spoonful of the broth. After this cannibal +feast, Barclay, to screen himself from the vengeance of the king, +built this fortress, which before the invention of gunpowder must have +been impregnable. Some of the conspirators were afterwards pardoned. +One of the pardons is said to be still in existence; and the reason +assigned for granting it is, that the conspirator was within the tenth +degree of kin to Macduff, thane of Fife. + +CHARLES STUART. + + + * * * * * + + +USE OF HORSE-CHESTNUTS. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + +These nuts are much used in France and in Switzerland, in whitening +not only of hemp and flax, but also of silk and wool. They contain a +soapy juice, fit for washing of linens and stuffs, for milling of caps +and stockings, &c., and for fulling of stuffs and cloths. + +Twenty nuts are sufficient for five quarts of water. They must be first +peeled, which can be done by children, then rasped or dried, and ground +in a malt-mill, or any other common steel mill. The water must be soft, +either rain or river water, for hard well water will by no means do. +When the nuts are rasped or ground, they must be steeped in the water +quite cold, which soon becomes frothy, (as it does with soap,) and then +turns white as milk. It must be well stirred at first with a stick, and +then, after standing some time to settle, must be strained, or poured +off quite clear. Linen washed in this liquor, and afterwards rinsed in +clear running water, takes an agreeable light sky-blue colour. It takes +spots out of both linen and woollen, and never damages or injures the +cloth. Poultry will eat the meal of them, if it is steeped in hot water, +and mixed with an equal quantity of pollard. The nuts also are eat by +some cows, and without hurting their milk; but they are excellent for +horses whose wind is injured. + +A.B. + + * * * * * + + +A FETCH. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + + "I do believe," (as Byron cries,) + "There is a haunted spot, + And I can point out where it lies, + But cannot--where 'tis not. + + Turn gentle people, lend an ear, + Unto my simple tale, + It will not draw a single tear + Nor make the heart bewail, + + 'Tis of a ghost! O ladies fair! + Start not with sore affright, + It will not harm a single hair, + Nor 'make it stand upright." + + Attend, it was but yesternight, + I in my garret sat, + I saw--no, nothing yet I saw, + But something went pit-pat. + + So did my heart responsively, + Beat like a prison'd bird, + That's newly caught--but no reply + I made, to what I heard. + + It nearer came--'Angels,' I cried, + 'And Ministers of Grace defend.' + Yet nothing I as yet descried, + My hair stood all on end. + + My breath was short, I'm sure my eye + Was dim, so was the light, + I thought that I that hour should die, + With sad and sore affright. + + And then came o'er me--what came o'er? + Some spectre grim I'll bet, + O tell me!--why at every pore-- + A very heavy sweat. + + Poh, don't delay the wond'rous tale, + What follow'd? tell me that, + (I feel my heart and limbs too fail) + The same thing, pit-a-pat. + + And then there came before my eyes, + I pray thee 'list, O list,' + You fill my heart with dread surprise + What was it? why a mist. + + And then around my head there play'd + A flame, so wond'rous bright, + That made me more than all afraid-- + My wig had caught the light. + + And there came wand'ring by at last, + The same thing, pit-a-pat, + I found as 'cross the room it past, + The cat had got a rat. + + +MAY. + + + * * * * * + + +TEA. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + "The Muses' friend, _tea_, does our fancy aid, + Repress those vapours which the head invade." + + +WALLER. + + +The tea-tree loves to grow in valleys, at the foot of mountains, and +upon the banks of rivers, where it enjoys a southern exposure to the +sun, though it endures considerable variations of heat and cold, as it +flourishes in the northern clime of Peking, as well as about Canton; +and it is observed that the degree of cold at Peking is as severe in +winter as in some parts of Europe. However, the best tea grows in a +mild, temperate climate, the country about Nanking producing better +tea than either Peking or Canton, betwixt which places it is situated. +The root resembles that of the peach-tree; the leaves are green, +longish at the point, and narrow, an inch and half long, and jagged +all round. The flower is much like that of the wild rose, but smaller. +The fruit is of different forms, sometimes round, sometimes long, +sometimes triangular, and of the ordinary size of a bean, containing +two or three seeds, of a mouse colour, including each a kernel. These +are the seeds by which the plant is propagated, a number, from six to +twelve, or fifteen, being promiscuously put into one hole, four or +five inches deep, at certain distances from each other. The seeds +vegetate without any other care, though the more industrious annually +remove the weeds and manure the land. The leaves which succeed are not +fit to be plucked before the third year's growth, at which period they +are plentiful, and in their prime. In about seven years the shrub +rises to a man's height, and as it then bears few leaves, and grows +slowly, it is cut down to the stem, which occasions an exuberance of +fresh shoots and leaves the succeeding summer. In Japan, the tea-tree +is cultivated round the borders of the fields, without regard to soil, +but as the Chinese export great quantities of tea, they plant whole +fields with it. The tea-trees that yield often the finest leaves, grow +on the steep declivities of hills, where it is dangerous and in some +cases impracticable to collect them. The Chinese are said to vanquish +this difficulty by a singular contrivance. The large monkeys which +inhabit these cliffs are irritated, and in revenge they break off the +branches and throw them down, so that the leaves are thus obtained. +The leaves should be dried as soon as possible after they are +gathered. The Chinese are always taking tea, especially at meals; it +is the chief treat with which they regale their friends, but they use +it without the addition of sugar and milk. Tea was first introduced +into Europe by the Dutch East India Company very early in the +seventeenth century, and a great quantity of it was brought over +from Holland by Lord Arlington and Lord Ossory about the year 1666, +at which time it sold for 60s. per pound. Tea exhilarates without +intoxication, and its enlivening qualities are equally felt by the +sedentary student and the active labourer. Dr. Johnson dearly loved +tea, and drank great quantities of this elegant and popular beverage, +and so does P.T.W. + + + * * * * * + + +PORSON. + +The late professor having once exasperated a disputant by the dryness +of his sarcasm, the petulant opponent thus addressed him:--"Mr. +Porson, I beg leave to tell you, sir, that my opinion of you is +perfectly contemptible." Person replied, "I never knew an opinion of +yours, sir, which was not contemptible." + + * * * * * + + +THE DRAMA AND ITS PROFESSORS. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + +It is remarkable with what difference actors were treated among the +ancients. At Athens, they were held in such esteem, as to be sometimes +appointed to discharge embassies and other negotiations; whereas, at +Rome, if a citizen became an actor, he thereby forfeited his freedom. +Among the moderns, actors are best treated in England; the French having +much the same opinion of them that the Romans had; for though an actor +of talent, in Paris, is more regarded than here, he nevertheless is +deeply degraded. He may die amid applauses on the stage, but at his +natural death, he must pass to his grave, without a prayer or _de +profundis_, unless a minister of religion receives his last sigh. + +Cromwell and his Puritans had a holy horror of actors. They pronounced +them Sons of Belial! and professors of abomination. During the whole +reign of the Republican Parliament, and Protectorate, the theatres of +that day were closed, or, if opened by stealth, were subject to the +visits of the emissaries of "Praise God Barebones," "Fight the Good +Fight," and their crew. The actors were driven off the stage by +soldiers, and the cant word of that period is still recorded, "Enter +red coat, exit hat and cloak." William Prynne was celebrated for his +writings against the immorality of the stage, and the furious invectives +of Jeremy Collier, are still extant; his pen was roused by Dryden's +_Spanish Friar_, and Congreve's witty, but licentious comedies. Collier +inveighed without mercy, but he certainly did much to reform the stage. +Our Evangelicals and Methodists denounce the histrionic art to this day, +with more than the zeal of the Church of Rome. But a follower of Wesley +or Whitfield would not enter the den of abomination. Here, however, we +take care all our comedies shall be purified, and our tragedies free, +even from an oath; both are subject to the censor's unsparing pen, and +must be subsequently licensed by the Lord Chamberlain. + +The actors in England, have, it is true, only become respectable +within the last half century, and though they are termed his majesty's +servants, yet an _unrepealed_ statute denounces them as vagabonds. +As a body, numerous in itself, they are as free from crime as any other +associated body or profession of men, and yet do they "his majesty's +servants" continue to lay under the stigma which the above unrepealed +act fixes upon them. This is perfectly anomalous, and it was spiritedly +denounced by Sir Walter Scott, when on a recent and interesting occasion +he nobly and manfully declared "Its professors had been stigmatized; and +laws had been passed against them less dishonourable to them than to the +statesman by whom they were proposed, and to the legislators by whom +they were passed." To repeal, therefore, an act nugatory in itself, +would not add to the reputation of the profession, nor give a license to +further abuse; but it would be an act of justice, and remove a prejudice +unjustly attached to the professors of a difficult art. + +The critical pen of Mrs. Inchbald justly remarks, "To the honour of +a profession long held in contempt by the wise--and still contemned +by the weak--Shakspeare, the pride of Britain, was a player." To the +illustrious bard, the modern drama is indebted for its excellence. His +writings will remain for ever the grandest monument of a genius which +opened to him the whole heart of man, all the mines of fancy, all the +stores of nature, and gave him power beyond all other writers, to move, +astonish, and delight mankind. In the drama, the most interesting +emotions are excited; the dangerous passions of hate, envy, avarice, and +pride, with all their innumerable train of attendant vices, are detected +and exposed. Love, friendship, gratitude, and all those active and +generous virtues which warm the heart and exalt the mind, are held up +as objects of emulation. And what can be a more effectual method of +softening the ferocity, and improving the minds of the inconsiderate? +The heart is melted by the scene, and ready to receive an +impression--either to warn the innocent, or to appal the guilty; and +numbers of those who have neither abilities nor time for deriving +advantage from reading, are powerfully impressed through the medium +of the eyes and ears, with those important truths which while they +illuminate the understanding, correct the heart. The moral laws of the +drama are said to have an effect next after those conveyed from the +pulpit, or promulgated in courts of justice. Mr. Burke, indeed, has gone +so far as to observe that "the theatre is a better school of moral +sentiment than churches." The drama, therefore, has a right to find a +place; and to its professors are we indebted for what may justly be +considered one of the highest of all intellectual gratifications. + +F.K.Y. + + * * * * * + + +MEMORY. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + + How many a mortal bears a heavy chain, + Of bitter sorrow, 'neath thy iron reign, + And many a one, whose harder fate has given, + Some early woes, by thee to madness driven, + Sees the sad vision of some bygone day, + And thinks on what he hath seen with dismay: + So some lone murderer, wanders o'er the world + By thy dread arm to desperation hurl'd; + In vain he prays, or bends the lowly knee, + With fiendlike power, thou dragg'st him back with thee, + Point'st to some scene of early guilt and woe, + Opening the source from whence his sorrows flow. + As round the bark which feels the tempest's shock, + The lightning plays, and shows the fatal rock, + So memory brings our sorrows all to light + With vivid truth presents them to the sight; + Pursues the wretch who else some joy might find, + To fix her seat of empire in his mind. + As desert lakes in sad illusion fly, + Before the weary traveller's cheated eye + So memory shows, those hopes we still would cherish. + Pleased but to fade, allured us but to perish. + +M.B.S. + + * * * * * + + + + +SPIRIT OF THE PUBLIC JOURNALS. + + * * * * * + +ON COALHEAVERS. + + +Although in this age of all but universal hypocrisy and make-believe, +every man has at least two fashions of one countenance, it is in dress +principally that most men are most unlike themselves. But the coalheaver +always sticks close to the attire of his station; he alone wears the +consistent and befitting garb of his forefathers; he alone has not +discarded "the napless vesture of humility," to follow the always +expensive, and often absurd fashions of his superiors. All ungalled of +him is each courtier's heel or great man's kibe. Yet, is not even his +every-day clothing unseemly, or his aspect unprepossessing. He casts +as broad and proper a shadow in the sun as any other man. Black he is, +indeed, but comely, like the daughters of Jerusalem.--To begin with the +hat which he has honoured with a preference--what are your operas or +your fire-shovels beside it? they must instantly (on a fair comparison) +sink many degrees below zero in the scale of contempt. In a word, I +would make bold to assert that it unites in perfection the two grand +requisites of a head covering, beauty and comfort. Gentlemen may smile +at this if they will, and take exception to my taste; but, I ask, does +the modern round hat, whatever the insignificant variations of its form, +possess either quality? No, not a jot of it. One would think, by our +pertinacious adherence to the head-ach giving, circular conformation, +that we wished to show our anger at the Almighty for not shaping our +caputs like cylinders. In fine, though the parson's and the quaker's hat +has each its several merits, commend me to the fan-tailed _shallow_. +The flap part attached to the cap seems, at first sight, as to use, +supernecessary, although so ornamental withal. It no doubt (as its +name, indeed indicates) had its origin in gallantry, and was invented +in the age of fans, for the purpose of cooling their mistresses' +bosoms, heated--as they would necessarily be--at fair time, by their +gravel-grinding walks, under a fervid sun, to the elegant revels of +West-end, of Greenwich, or of Tothill-fields. Breeches, rejected by +common consent of young and old alike, cling to the legs of the +coalheaver with an abiding fondness, as to the last place of refuge; +and, on gala-days, a dandy might die of envy to mark the splendour +of those nether integuments--which he has not soul enough to dare +to wear--of brilliant eye-arresting blue, or glowing scarlet plush, +glittering in the sun's rays, giving and taking glory! But enough of +the dress of these select "true-born Englishmen"--for right glad I am +to state that there are but _two_ Scotch coalheavers on the whole +river, and _no_ Irish. I beg leave to return to the more important +consideration of their manners. Most people you meet in your walks in +the common thoroughfare of London, glide, shuffle, or crawl onward, as +if they conscientiously thought they had no manner of right to tread the +earth but on sufferance. Not so our coalheaver. Mark how erect _he_ +walks! how firm a keel he presents to the vainly breasting human tide +that comes rolling on with a show of opposition to his onward course! +It is he, and he only, who preserves, in his gait and in his air, +the self-sustained and conscious dignity of the first-created man. +Surrounded by an inferior creation, he gives the wall to none. That +pliancy of temper, which is wont to make itself known by the waiving +a point or renouncing a principle for others' advantage, in him +has no place; he either knows it not, or else considers it a poor, +mean-spirited, creeping baseness, altogether unworthy of his imitation, +and best befitted with ineffable contempt. He neither dreads the contact +of the baker--the Scylla of the metropolitan peripatetic, nor yet shuns +the dire collision of the chimney-sweep--his Charybdis. Try to pass him +as he walks leisurely on, making the solid earth ring with his bold +tread, and you will experience more difficulties in the attempt than did +that famous admiral, Bartholomew Diaz, when he first doubled the Cape of +Storms. Or let us suppose, that haply you allow your frail carcass to go +full drive against his sturdiness, when lo!--in beautiful illustration +of those doctrines in projectiles, that relate to the concussion of +moving bodies--you fly off at an angle "right slick" into the middle of +the carriage-way; whence a question of some interest presently arises, +whether you will please to be run over by a short or a long stage.--But +to return. Who hesitates to make way for a coalheaver? As for their +drays--as _consecutive_ a species of vehicles as a body can be stopped +by--every one knows they make way for themselves. + +I one Sunday met a party of my favourites in St. Paul's cathedral. +They seemed to view with becoming respect and even awe that splendid +place; and they listened to and observed, with apparent profound +attention, the cathedral service. Yet I must confess my favourable +opinion of their grave looks was rather staggered by overhearing +afterwards one of them say to his neighbour, casting a look all round +the while, "My eyes, Tom, what lots o' _coals_ this here place would +hold." Perhaps the observation was meant in honour. + +_Monthly Magazine_. + + * * * * * + + +TRAVELLING FARE. + + +If you shut yourself up for some fifty hours or so in a mail-coach, +that keeps wheeling along at the rate of ten miles an hour, and +changes horses in half a minute, certainly, for obvious reasons, the +less you eat and drink the better; and perhaps a few hundred daily +drops of laudanum, or equivalent grains of opium, would be advisable, +so that the transit from London to Edinburgh might be performed in a +phantasma. But a free agent ought to live well on his travels--some +degrees better, without doubt, than when at home. People seldom live +very well at home. There is always something requiring to be eaten up, +that it may not be lost, which destroys the soothing and satisfactory +symmetry of an unexceptionable dinner. We have detected the same duck +through many unprincipled disguises, playing a different part in the +farce of domestic economy, with a versatility hardly to have been +expected in one of the most generally despised of the web-footed +tribe. When travelling at one's own sweet will, one feeds at a +different inn every meal; and, except when the coincidence of +circumstances is against you, there is an agreeable variety both +in the natural and artificial disposition of the dishes. + +_Blackwood's Magazine_. + + * * * * * + + +ENGLISH FRUITS. + +(_Continued from page 231_.) + + +_The Currant_--The native place of this useful fruit is not exactly +ascertained; nearly allied to the gooseberry, it receives the same +treatment, shows the same changes, and may be further improved by +the same means; a cross between the white Dutch and red, might be a +valuable mule. It is probable the black also may be induced to sport +from that steady character it has hitherto maintained; there are but +few domesticated plants but which (like animals) depart, in some way +or other, from their native caste. + +_The Apple_.--It is difficult to find adequate terms to set forth +the value of the advantages which have accrued to mankind from the +cultivation of this deservedly high-prized fruit. One circumstance +in the history of the apple must not pass unnoticed here, viz., the +deterioration of the old sorts, which regaled and were the boast +of our forefathers a century ago. It is the opinion of an eminent +orchardist that as the apple is an artificial production, and, as +such, has its stages of youth, maturity, and old age, it cannot, in +its period of decrepitude, be by any means renovated to its pristine +state, either by pruning or cutting down, changing its place, or by +transferring its parts to young and vigorous stocks; and that, in +whatever station it may be placed, it carries with it the decay and +diseases of its parent. This is the most rational account which has +been given of this indisputable fact; and though its accuracy has been +called in question by some naturalists, the general failure in our +old orchards, and the difficulties in forming new ones with the old +favourite sorts, is a decisive proof that such deterioration exists. +It is therefore the chief object of the modern pomologist, to obtain +from seeds of the best _wildings_ new varieties wherewith to form new +and profitable orchards; and which may be expected to continue in +health and fertility, as the old sorts have done, for the next +century. + +The foregoing are the fruits found wild in our climate; the difference +in their aboriginal and cultivated state has been pointed out; we +shall now give short descriptions of foreign fruits, which have been +partly naturalized, the management of which forms so considerable a +share of the gardener's art and attention. + +_The Apricot_.--It is supposed that this fruit is a native of Africa: +from thence it appears to have come through Persia and Greece to us, +with the name "a praecox," significant of its earliness. There are +several varieties which have been obtained by means similar to those +already mentioned; and there is room for further exertion in +endeavouring to improve the size of the fruit, or any other desirable +quality. + +_The Peach_--This delicate and excellent fruit is a striking instance +of what judicious cultivation may produce. The common almond has +always been considered the original stock of this monument of skill +and assiduity. The estimation in which it is held, and the care and +expense incurred in its cultivation both in forcing-houses and in the +open air, is proof of its superiority: and no fruit repays the labour +of the attendant, or the expense of the owner, more bountifully than +this. Seedlings of this fruit are, if we can credit what is written +and said of it, less inclined to depart from the properties or +qualities of the parent, than most others of our improved fruits. In +America, they are in common and general cultivation. No trouble is +bestowed in either layering (which is practicable), or budding them. +Sowing a quantity of the stones, they are sure to pick out from among +the seedlings as many good sorts as they may wish to cultivate: few of +these may be exactly like the parent; some may be superior, but all +are passable, especially if the young trees have been selected by a +skilful hand; and this he is enabled to do, merely from the appearance +of the wood and leaves. Many new sorts have lately been obtained and +brought into notice in this country; and this facility of the peach to +multiply its varieties will no doubt be taken advantage of by +propagators. + +_The Nectarine_.--This, it is allowed by all writers, is certainly a +child of cultivation: there being no wild plant from which it could be +derived, except the almond. It is therefore a collateral branch with, +or rather of, the peach: of this no better proof can be given, than +the circumstance that nectarines are sometimes produced by a peach +tree. + +_The Orange_.--This endless family of fruits it is probable had the +small but useful wild lime for its progenitor. The monstrous shaddock, +citrons of all shapes and sizes, oranges and lemons, are all +varieties, obtained in the course of long cultivation. + +(_To be concluded in our next_.) + + * * * * * + + + + +THE GATHERER. + +"I am but a Gatherer and disposer of other men's stuff."--_Wotton_. + + * * * * * + + +TO CHLOE, AT SIXTY. + + + Those teeth, as white as orient pearls + Stolen from th' Indian deep, + Those locks, whose light and auburn curls + Soft on thy shoulders sleep, + Expose a woman to the sight + None but old friends can know; + Thy locks were grey, thy teeth not white, + Some twenty years ago. + + + * * * * * + + +Wilkes used to say, that a gentleman did not always require a footman +to carry a parcel, for there were three things which he might always +carry openly in his hand,--a book, a paper of snuff, and a string of +fish. + + * * * * * + + +HEREDITARY TALENT IN ACTORS. + +"Families are chequered as in brains, so in bulk."--FULLER. + + +The children of many obscure performers have become eminent: but there +are very few instances in which the descendant of a considerable actor +or actress has been distinguished. To take instances within recent +recollection, or of the present day, for example--Mr. Elliston has a +son upon the stage: with none of the striking talent of the father. +Mr. Henry Siddons, the son of Mrs. Siddons, was a very bad actor +indeed. Lewis had two sons upon the stage, neither of them of any +value. Mr. Dowton has two sons (or had), in the same situation. And +Mrs. Glover's two daughters will never rise above mediocrity. On the +other hand, Mr. Macready and Mr. Wallack, are both sons of very low +actors; and the late Mr. John Bannister and Mr. Tokely were similarly +descended. Almost the only modern instance of the immediate descendant +of a valuable performer turning out well, was in the case of Mrs. +Jordan's daughter, Mrs. Alsop; who was very nearly as good an actress +as her mother. We doubt, too, if there is an instance on record of a +very young man being a considerable actor. + + * * * * * + + +PRISON TORTURE. + + +A horrible instance of human vengeance occurred a short time since, at +Minden, in Westphalia. The object was a person who, from conscientious +motives, peculiar to the religious body of which he was a member, had +refused to serve in the militia. He was placed in a cell, the floor and +sides of which were closely studded with projecting spikes, or pieces of +sharpened iron resembling the blades of knives. The individual remained +in this state for twenty-four hours, and the punishment was repeated +at three distinct intervals. It is considered a rare occurrence for a +person to survive the second infliction of this species of cruelty. +In this instance, however, the sufferer did not perish--_From the last +Report of the Prison Discipline Society_. + + * * * * * + + +THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE. + + +As her Grace was one day rambling in the neighbourhood of Chiswick, +she was overtaken by a violent storm, and accordingly took shelter, +in a cottage where she happened to be unknown. Among other topics she +introduced with her usual affability, she asked the poor woman if +she knew the Duchess of Devonshire? "Know her, (answered the woman,) +_everybody_ has cause to know her here; never was there a better lady +born." "I am afraid you are mistaken, (said her Grace); from what I +understand of her, she is no better than she should be." "I am sure +_you_ are no better than you should be, (returned the poor woman,) to +find fault with the Duchess; but you'll never be worthy to wipe her +shoes." "Well then, (rejoined her Grace,) I must be beholden to _you_, +as they are at present very dirty." The good woman perceiving the +awkward mistake, ran to perform the office with great humility, and +received an ample reward. + + * * * * * + + +KITCHEN CONUNDRUM. + + + "Come Thomas," says Kitty, "pray make us a pun,-- + You're goodnatured and never refuse;" + + "Ask coachee," says Tom, "_he's_ the fellow for Fun,-- + For he knows the way to _a-mews_." + + Says coachee, "Why Thomas you puzzle my brains, + For you never can bridle your wit;" + + "But how comes it, that I, tho' exposed to the _reins_ + Ev'ry day, never _suffer a bit_?" + + * * * * * + + +DEAR TIMES. + + +After the union with Ireland, when the Irish members had taken their +seats, one of them, in the heat of his maiden speech, blustered out, +"Now, dare Mr. Speaker," which, of course, set the house in an +immoderate fit of laughter. When the tumult had subsided, Sheridan +observed, "that the honourable gentleman was perfectly in order, +since, thanks to the ministry, everything at that time was +immoderately _dear_." + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, +and Instruction., by Various + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11369 *** diff --git a/11369-h/11369-h.htm b/11369-h/11369-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8d9a9fe --- /dev/null +++ b/11369-h/11369-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,2165 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"> +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" + content="text/html; charset=UTF-8" /> + <title> + The Mirror of Literature, Issue 280. + </title> + <style type="text/css"> + /*<![CDATA[*/ + <!-- + body {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + p {text-align: justify;} + blockquote {text-align: justify;} + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 {text-align: center;} + pre {font-size: 0.7em;} + + hr {text-align: center; width: 50%;} + html>body hr {margin-right: 25%; margin-left: 25%; width: 50%;} + hr.full {width: 100%;} + html>body hr.full {margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 0%; width: 100%;} + + .note, .footnote {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-size: 0.9em;} + + span.pagenum {position: absolute; left: 1%; right: 91%; font-size: 8pt;} + + .poem {margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;} + .poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;} + .poem p {margin: 0; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} + .poem p.i2 {margin-left: 1em;} + + .figure {padding: 1em; margin: 0; text-align: center; font-size: 0.8em; margin: auto;} + .figure img {border: none;} + .figure p + --> + /*]]>*/ + </style> + </head> + <body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11369 ***</div> + + <hr class="full" /> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page281" name="page281"></a>[pg + 281]</span> + <h1> + THE MIRROR<br /> + OF<br /> + LITERATURE, AMUSEMENT, AND INSTRUCTION. + </h1> + <hr class="full" /> + <table width="100%" summary="Banner"> + <tr> + <td align="left"> + <b>VOL. X, NO. 280.]</b> + </td> + <td align="center"> + <b>SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1827.</b> + </td> + <td align="right"> + <b>[PRICE 2d.</b> + </td> + </tr> + </table> + <hr class="full" /> + <h2> + Illustrations of Shakspeare. + </h2> + <hr /> + <h3> + NO. XIII. ELSINEUR, FROM HAMLET'S GARDEN. + </h3> + <hr /> + <div class="figure" style="width: 100%;"> + <a href="images/280-1.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/280-1.png" + alt="Elsineur, from Hamlet's Garden." /></a> + </div> + <p> + We augur that the above will prove one of the most + interesting of our Shakspearian Illustrations, inasmuch as + the garden where Hamlet was wont to revel in the fitful + dreams of his philosophic melancholy, is holy ground. "The + lapse of ages and the fables of the poet," says a delighted + visiter, "were all lost in the reality of Shakspeare's + painting: the moment of his scene seemed present with me; and + eager to traverse every part of this consecrated ground, I + had already followed Hamlet every where; I had measured the + deep shadows of the platform, encountered the grey ghost of + the Royal Dane, had killed Polonius in the queen's closet, + and drowned poor Ophelia in the willowed stream. The modern + aspect of Elsineur is, however, far from inviting, and not a + single vestige presents itself that bears the smallest trace + of this town ever having been hallowed by the mausoleum of an + Ophelia, or proudly decorated with the stately walls of a + royal palace." + </p> + <p> + About a mile from the town is a place that bears the name of + Hamlet's garden. Here is no relic of ancient interest, + excepting the tradition, which affirms that to be the spot + where once stood the Danish palace, and where was enacted + that tragedy, which has been so gloriously immortalized by + the genius of our great dramatic bard. + </p> + <p> + The present edifice is erected on the brow of a gently rising + hill, the summit of which is gained by means of a winding + walk cut through a small shrubbery. In the surrounding + prospect, the town of Elsineur, on the plain beneath, + presents itself ill-built, red, and without any public + building, or spire, to vary its sameness. Far to the left of + the city stands the castle of Kronenberg, a bold and fine + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page282" name="page282"></a>[pg + 282]</span> feature; the waves of the Cattegut roll at its + feet; and are bounded on the opposite side by the Swedish + coast. When the annexed sketch was made, 400 sail of + merchants' ships were lying there at anchor, which added + greatly to the interest of the picture. The small village on + the distant shore is Elsenberg. The forest of Kronenberg is + indeed proudly situated; the form of the building, with its + spires and minarets, is nobly picturesque; the fabric is of + grey stone; and its innumerable windows, varied towers, and + other architectural ornaments, make it a striking and + beautiful contrast to the dull uniformity of the town. + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert Ker Porter, in his visit to this sacred spot, + collected a few interesting circumstances at the + fountain-head, relating to Shakspeare's northern hero, from + the very source whence our poet must have drawn the incidents + of his tragedy, viz. the "Annals of Denmark," written by Saxo + Grammaticus in the twelfth century. The work is in Latin, and + in our next number we intend inserting a short abstract of + Hamlet's story. It will be curious to compare the dialogues + of the original with their counterpart in the play. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + ON THE APPEARANCE OF AN AURORA BOREALIS, ON THE NIGHT OF THE + 25TH OF SEPTEMBER. + </h3> + <center> + BY A LADY IN HER THIRTEENTH YEAR. + </center> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + What may this mean? this ruddy blaze of light, + </p> + <p> + Breaking effulgent through the stilly night; + </p> + <p> + Darting its blood-red form along the sky, + </p> + <p> + Glowing with heaven's glorious majesty. + </p> + <p> + How with its phalaxy of rays unfurl'd, + </p> + <p> + It comes: its radiance circling all our mother world. + </p> + <p> + The pharos of the night; where gods might dance. + </p> + <p> + Heedless of mortals dull, unmeaning trance; + </p> + <p> + Where spirits in their mysteries might find, + </p> + <p> + A sail to float upon the yielding wind; + </p> + <p> + But see, it flies, its shadow; form outspread, + </p> + <p> + In fainting radiance o'er earth's startled bed, + </p> + <p> + Yet rests, like the death gleam of beauty's eye, + </p> + <p> + Or last rich tint of an autumnal sky. + </p> + <p> + And now in fleecy clouds the heav'ns appear. + </p> + <p> + Again it darts, dreamer, there's naught to fear; + </p> + <p> + Again, like a proud spirit of the sky, + </p> + <p> + Though conquer'd, breaking forth in majesty. + </p> + <p> + Britain, for thee this fearful warning sent, + </p> + <p> + Oh! mock not foolishly its dire portent; + </p> + <p> + For now that vice on all her malice wreaks, + </p> + <p> + Charms on the stage, and in the assembly speaks; + </p> + <p> + Now that with cheating fires she shameless dares, + </p> + <p> + Fortunate where virtue once defied her snares; + </p> + <p> + Again I say, for thee this warning sent, + </p> + <p> + Oh! mark it well, mock not its dire portent. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <p> + F.J.H. + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <h2> + THE SELECTOR,<br /> + AND<br /> + LITERARY NOTICES OF<br /> + <i>NEW WORKS</i>. + </h2> + <hr /> + <h3> + CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. + </h3> + <center> + (<i>By the author of Waverley</i>.) + </center> + <p> + [We have the pleasure of submitting to our readers, (almost + entire,) one of the stories of the forthcoming <i>Chronicles + of the Canongate</i>, it being the second narrative, and the + last in the first volume, and as well as the others, founded + on true incidents. The <i>Chronicles</i> are domestic tales; + but the <i>Two Drovers</i> should not be taken as a specimen + of the work. Slender as are its incidents, it proves that + "Richard (or Walter) is himself again," for in no vein of + writing is the author of Waverley more felicitous than in + delineating scenes of actual life, splendid as are his + narratives of the fairy scenes and halls of romance: and in + the prevailing taste for this description of writing, we + think the Chronicles of the Canongate bid fair to enjoy + popularity equal to any of Sir Walter's previous + productions.] + </p> + <h3> + <i>The Two Drovers</i>. + </h3> + <p> + It was the day after the Doune Fair when my story commences. + It had been a brisk market, several dealers had attended from + the northern and midland counties in England, and the English + money had flown so merrily about as to gladden the hearts of + the Highland farmers. Many large droves were about to set off + for England, under the protection of their owners, or of the + topsmen whom they employed in the tedious, laborious and + responsible office of driving the cattle for many hundred + miles, from the market where they had been purchased, to the + fields or farm-yards where they were to be fattened for the + shambles. + </p> + <p> + Of the number who left Doune in the morning, and with the + purpose we have described, not a <i>Glunamie</i> of them all + cocked his bonnet more briskly, or gartered his tartan hose + under knee over a pair of more promising <i>spiogs</i> + (legs), than did Robin Oig M'Combich, called familiarly Robin + Oig, that is Young, or the Lesser, Robin. Though small of + stature, as the epithet Oig implies, and not very strongly + limbed, he was as light and alert as one of the deer of his + mountains. He had an elasticity of step, which, in the course + of a long march, made many a stout fellow envy him; and the + manner in which he busked his plaid and adjusted his bonnet, + argued a consciousness that so smart a John Highlandman as + himself would not <span class="pagenum"><a id="page283" + name="page283"></a>[pg 283]</span> pass unnoticed among the + Lowland lasses. The ruddy cheek, red lips, and white teeth, + set off a countenance which had gained by exposure to the + weather, a healthful and hardy rather than a rugged hue. If + Robin Oig did not laugh, or even smile frequently, as indeed + is not the practice among his countrymen, his bright eyes + usually gleamed from under his bonnet with an expression of + cheerfulness ready to be turned into mirth. + </p> + <p> + The departure of Robin Oig was an incident in the little + town, in and near which he had many friends male and female. + He was a topping person in his way, transacted considerable + business on his own behalf, and was intrusted by the best + farmers in the Highlands, in preference to any other drover + in that district. He might have increased his business to any + extent had he condescended to manage it by deputy; but except + a lad or two, sister's sons of his own, Robin rejected the + idea of assistance, conscious, perhaps how much his + reputation depended upon his attending in person to the + practical discharge of his duty in every instance. He + remained, therefore, contented with the highest premium given + to persons of his description, and comforted himself with the + hopes that a few journeys to England might enable him to + conduct business on his own account, in a manner becoming his + birth. For Robin Oig's father, Lachlan M'Combich, (or, <i>son + of my friend</i>, his actual clan surname being M'Gregor,) + had been so called by the celebrated Rob Roy, because of the + particular friendship which had subsisted between the + grandsire of Robin and that renowned cateran. Some people + even say, that Robin Oig derived his Christian name from a + man, as renowned in the wilds of Lochlomond, as ever was his + namesake Robin Hood, in the precincts of merry Sherwood. "Of + such ancestry," as James Boswell says, "who would not be + proud?" Robin Oig was proud accordingly; but his frequent + visits to England and to the Lowlands had given him tact + enough to know that pretensions, which still gave him a + little right to distinction in his own lonely glen, might be + both obnoxious and ridiculous if preferred elsewhere. The + pride of birth, therefore, was like the miser's treasure, the + secret subject of his contemplation, but never exhibited to + strangers as a subject of boasting. + </p> + <p> + Many were the words of gratulation and goodluck which were + bestowed on Robin Oig. The judges commended his drove, + especially the best of them, which were Robin's own property. + Some thrust out their snuff-mulls for the parting + pinch—others tendered the <i>doch-an-dorrach</i>, or + parting cup. All cried—"Good-luck travel out with you + and come home with you.—Give you luck in the Saxon + market—brave notes in the <i>leabhar-dhu</i>, (black + pocket-book,) and plenty of English gold in the + <i>sporran</i> (pouch of goat-skin.)" + </p> + <p> + The bonny lasses made their adieus more modestly, and more + than one, it was said, would have given her best brooch to be + certain that it was upon her that his eye last rested as he + turned towards his road. + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig had just given the preliminary "<i>Hoo-hoo!</i>" to + urge forward the loiterers of the drove, when there was a cry + behind him. + </p> + <p> + "Stay, Robin—bide a blink. Here is Janet of + Tomahourich—auld Janet, your father's sister." + </p> + <p> + "Plague on her, for an auld Highland witch and spaewife," + said a farmer from the Carse of Stirling; "she'll cast some + of her cantrips on the cattle." + </p> + <p> + "She canna do that," said another sapient of the same + profession—"Robin Oig is no the lad to leave any of + them, without tying Saint Mungo's knot on their tails, and + that will put to her speed the best witch that ever flew over + Dimayet upon a broomstick." + </p> + <p> + It may not be indifferent to the reader to know, that the + Highland cattle are peculiarly liable to be <i>taken</i>, or + infected, by spells and witchcraft, which judicious people + guard against by knitting knots of peculiar complexity on the + tuft of hair which terminates the animal's tail. + </p> + <p> + But the old woman who was the object of the farmer's + suspicion, seemed only busied about the drover, without + paying any attention to the flock. Robin, on the contrary, + appeared rather impatient of her presence. + </p> + <p> + "What auld-world fancy," he said, "has brought you so early + from the ingle-side this morning, Muhme? I am sure I bid you + good even, and had your God-speed, last night." + </p> + <p> + "And left me more siller than the useless old woman will use + till you come back again, bird of my bosom," said the sibyl. + "But it is little I would care for the food that nourishes + me, or the fire that warms me, or for God's blessed sun + itself, if aught but weal should happen to the grandson of my + father. So let me walk the <i>deasil</i> round you, that you + may go safe out into the far foreign land, and come safe + home." + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig stopped, half embarrassed, half laughing, and + signing to those around that he only complied with the old + woman to soothe her humour. In the meantime, she traced + around him, with wavering + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page284" name="page284"></a>[pg + 284]</span> steps, the propitiation, which some have thought + has been derived from the Druidical mythology. It consists, + as is well known, in the person who makes the <i>deasil</i>, + walking three times round the person who is the object of the + ceremony, taking care to move according to the course of the + sun. At once, however, she stopped short, and exclaimed, in a + voice of alarm and horror, "Grandson of my father, there is + blood on your hand." "Hush, for God's sake, aunt," said Robin + Oig; "you will bring more trouble on yourself with this + Taishataragh (second sight) than you will be able to get out + of for many a day." + </p> + <p> + The old woman only repeated, with a ghastly look, "There is + blood on your hand, and it is English blood. The blood of the + Gael is richer and redder. Let us see—let us—" + </p> + <p> + Ere Robin Oig could prevent her, which, indeed, could only + have been by positive violence, so hasty and peremptory were + her proceedings, she had drawn from his side the dirk which + lodged in the folds of his plaid, and held it up, exclaiming, + although the weapon gleamed clear and bright in the sun, + "Blood, blood—Saxon blood again. Robin Oig M'Combich, + go not this day to England!" + </p> + <p> + "Prutt, trutt," answered Robin Oig, "that will never do + neither—it would be next thing to running the country. + For shame, Muhme—give me the dirk. You cannot tell by + the colour the difference betwixt the blood of a black + bullock and a white one, and you speak of knowing Saxon from + Gaelic blood. All men have their blood from Adam, Muhme. Give + me my skenedhu, and let me go on my road. I should have been + half way to Stirling brig by this time—Give me my dirk, + and let me go." + </p> + <p> + "Never will I give it to you," said the old + woman—"Never will I quit my hold on your plaid, unless + you promise me not to wear that unhappy weapon." + </p> + <p> + The women around him urged him also, saying few of his aunt's + words fell to the ground; and as the Lowland farmers + continued to look moodily on the scene, Robin Oig determined + to close it at any sacrifice. + </p> + <p> + "Well, then," said the young drover, giving the scabbard of + the weapon to Hugh Morrison, "you Lowlanders care nothing for + these freats. Keep my dirk for me. I cannot give it you, + because it was my father's; but your drove follows ours, and + I am content it should be in your keeping, not in mine. Will + this do, Muhme?" + </p> + <p> + "It must", said the old woman—"that is, if the + Lowlander is mad enough to carry the knife." + </p> + <p> + The strong westlandman laughed aloud. + </p> + <p> + "Good wife," said he, "I am Hugh Morrison from Glenae, come + of the Manly Morrisons of auld langsyne, that never took + short weapon against a man in their lives. And neither needed + they; they had their broadswords, and I have this bit supple + (showing a formidable cudgel)—for dirking ower the + board, I leave that to John Highlandman. Ye needna snort, + none of you Highlanders, and you in especial, Robin. I'll + keep the bit knife, if you are feared for the auld + spae-wife's tale, and give it back to you whenever you want + it." + </p> + <p> + Robin was not particularly pleased with some part of Hugh + Morrison's speech; but he had learned in his travels more + patience than belonged to his Highland constitution + originally, and he accepted the service of the descendant of + the Manly Morrisons, without finding fault with the rather + depreciating manner in which it was offered. + </p> + <p> + "If he had not had his morning in his head, and been but a + Dumfries-shire hog into the boot, he would have spoken more + like a gentleman. But you cannot have more of a sow but a + grumph. It's a shame my father's knife should ever slash a + haggis for the like of him." + </p> + <p> + Thus saying, (but saying it in Gaelic,) Robin drove on his + cattle, and waved farewell to all behind him. He was in the + greater haste, because he expected to join at Falkirk a + comrade and brother in profession, with whom he proposed to + travel in company. + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig's chosen friend was a young Englishman, Harry + Wakefield by name, well known at every northern market, and + in his way as much famed and honoured as our Highland driver + of bullocks. He was nearly six feet high, gallantly formed to + keep the rounds at Smithfield, or maintain the ring at a + wrestling-match; and although he might have been overmatched, + perhaps, among the regular professors of the Fancy, yet as a + chance customer, he was able to give a bellyful to any + amateur of the pugilistic art. Doncaster races saw him in his + glory, betting his guinea, and generally successfully; nor + was there a main fought in Yorkshire, the feeders being + persons of celebrity, at which he was not to be seen, if + business permitted. But though a <i>sprack</i> lad, and fond + of pleasure and its haunts, Harry Wakefield was steady, and + not the cautious Robin Oig M'Combich himself was more + attentive to the main chance. His holidays were holidays + indeed; but his days of work were dedicated + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page285" name="page285"></a>[pg + 285]</span> to steady and persevering labour. In countenance + and temper, Wakefield was the model of Old England's merry + yeomen, whose clothyard shafts, in so many hundred battles, + asserted her superiority over the nations, and whose good + sabres, in our own time, are her cheapest and most assured + defence. His mirth was readily excited; for, strong in limb + and constitution, and fortunate in circumstances, he was + disposed to be pleased with every thing about him; and such + difficulties as he might occasionally encounter, were, to a + man of his energy, rather matter of amusement than serious + annoyance. With all the merits of a sanguine temper, our + young English drover was not without his defects. He was + irascible, and sometimes to the verge of being quarrelsome; + and perhaps not the less inclined to bring his disputes to a + pugilistic decision, because he found few antagonists able to + stand up to him in the boxing-ring. + </p> + <p> + It is difficult to say how Henry Wakefield and Robin Oig + first became intimates; but it is certain a close + acquaintance had taken place betwixt them, although they had + apparently few common topics of conversation or of interest, + so soon as their talk ceased to be of bullocks. Robin Oig, + indeed, spoke the English language rather imperfectly upon + any other topics but stots and kyloes, and Harry Wakefield + could never bring his broad Yorkshire tongue to utter a + single word of Gaelic. It was in vain Robin spent a whole + morning, during a walk over Minch-Moor, in attempting to + teach his companion to utter, with true precision, the + shibboleth <i>Llhu</i>, which is the Gaelic for a calf. + </p> + <p> + The pair of friends had traversed with their usual cordiality + the grassy wilds of Liddesdale, and crossed the opposite part + of Cumberland, emphatically called the Waste. In these + solitary regions, the cattle under the charge of our drovers + subsisted themselves cheaply, by picking their food as they + went along the drove-road, or sometimes by the tempting + opportunity of a <i>start and owerloup</i>, or invasion of + the neighbouring pasture, where an occasion presented itself. + But now the scene changed before them; they were descending + towards a fertile and enclosed country, where no such + liberties could be taken with impunity, or without a previous + arrangement and bargain with the possessors of the ground. + This was more especially the case, as a great northern fair + was upon the eve of taking place, where both the Scotch and + English drover expected to dispose of a part of their cattle, + which it was desirable to produce in the market, rested and + in good order. Fields were therefore difficult to be + obtained, and only upon high terms. This necessity occasioned + a temporary separation betwixt the two friends, who went to + bargain, each as he could, for the separate accommodation of + his herd. Unhappily it chanced that both of them, unknown to + each other, thought of bargaining for the ground they wanted + on the property of a country gentleman of some fortune, whose + estate lay in the neighbourhood. The English drover applied + to the bailiff on the property, who was known to him. It + chanced that the Cumbrian Squire, who had entertained some + suspicions of his manager's honesty, was taking occasional + measures to ascertain how far they were well founded, and had + desired that any inquiries about his enclosures, with a view + to occupy them for a temporary purpose, should be referred to + himself. As, however, Mr. Ireby had gone the day before upon + a journey of some miles distance to the northward, the + bailiff chose to consider the check upon his full powers as + for the time removed, and concluded that he should best + consult his master's interest and perhaps his own, in making + an agreement with Harry Wakefield. Meanwhile, ignorant of + what his comrade was doing, Robin Oig, on his side, chanced + to be overtaken by a well-looked smart little man upon a + pony, most knowingly hogged and cropped, as was then the + fashion, the rider wearing tight leather breeches, and + long-necked bright spurs. This cavalier asked one or two + pertinent questions about markets and the price of stock. So + Donald, seeing him a well-judging, civil gentleman, took the + freedom to ask him whether he could let him know if there was + any grass-land to be let in that neighbourhood, for the + temporary accommodation of his drove. He could not have put + the question to more willing ears. The gentleman of the + buckskins was the proprietor, with whose bailiff Harry + Wakefield had dealt, or was in the act of dealing. + </p> + <p> + "Thou art in good luck, my canny Scot," said Mr. Ireby, "to + have spoken to me, for I see thy cattle have done their day's + work, and I have at my disposal the only field within three + miles that is to be let in these parts." + </p> + <p> + "The drove can pe gang two, three, four miles very pratty + weel indeed—" said the cautious Highlander; "put what + would his honour pe axing for the peasts pe the head, if she + was to tak the park for twa or three days?" + </p> + <p> + "We wont differ, Sawney, if you let me have six stots for + winterers, in the way of reason." + </p> + <p> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page286" name="page286"></a>[pg + 286]</span> "And which peasts wad your honour pe for having?" + </p> + <p> + "Why—let me see—the two black—the dun + one—yon doddy—him with the twisted horn—and + brockit—How much by the head?" + </p> + <p> + "Ah," said Robin, "your honour is a shudge—a real + shudge—I couldna have set off the pest six peasts + petter myself, me that ken them as if they were my pairns, + puir things." + </p> + <p> + "Well, how much per head, Sawney," continued Mr. Ireby. + </p> + <p> + "It was high markets at Doune and Falkirk," answered Robin. + </p> + <p> + And thus the conversation proceeded, until they had agreed on + the <i>prix juste</i> for the bullocks, the Squire throwing + in the temporary accommodation of the enclosure for the + cattle into the boot, and Robin making, as he thought, a very + good bargain, providing the grass was but tolerable. The + Squire walked his pony alongside of the drove, partly to show + him the way, and see him put into possession of the field, + and partly to learn the latest news of the northern markets. + </p> + <p> + They arrived at the field, and the pasture seemed excellent. + But what was their surprise when they saw the bailiff quietly + inducting the cattle of Harry Wakefield into the grassy + Goshen which had just been assigned to those of Robin Oig + M'Combich by the proprietor himself. Squire Ireby set spurs + to his horse, dashed up to his servant, and learning what had + passed between the parties, briefly informed the English + drover that his bailiff had let the ground without his + authority, and that he might seek grass for his cattle + wherever he would, since he was to get none there. At the + same time he rebuked his servant severely for having + transgressed his commands, and ordered him instantly to + assist in ejecting the hungry and weary cattle of Harry + Wakefield, which were just beginning to enjoy a meal of + unusual plenty, and to introduce those of his comrade, whom + the English drover now began to consider as a rival. + </p> + <p> + The feelings which arose in Wakefield's mind, would have + induced him to resist Mr. Ireby's decision; but every + Englishman has a tolerably accurate sense of law and justice, + and John Fleecebumpkin, the bailiff, having acknowledged that + he had exceeded his commission, Wakefield saw nothing else + for it than to collect his hungry and disappointed charge, + and drive them on to seek quarters elsewhere. Robin Oig saw + what had happened with regret, and hastened to offer to his + English friend to share with him the disputed possession. But + Wakefield's pride was severely hurt, and he answered + disdainfully, "Take it all man—take it all—never + make two bites of a cherry—thou canst talk over the + gentry, and blear a plain man's eye—Out upon you, + man—I would not kiss any man's dirty latchets for leave + to bake in his oven." + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig, sorry but not surprised at his comrade's + displeasure, hastened to entreat his friend to wait but an + hour till he had gone to the Squire's house to receive + payment for the cattle he had sold, and he would come back + and help him to drive the cattle into some convenient place + of rest, and explain to him the whole mistake they had both + of them fallen into. But the Englishman continued indignant: + "Thou hast been selling, hast thou? Ay, ay—thou is a + cunning lad for kenning the hours of bargaining. Go to the + devil with thyself, for I will ne'er see thy fause loon's + visage again—thou should be ashamed to look me in the + face." + </p> + <p> + "I am ashamed to look no man in the face," said Robin Oig, + something moved; "and, moreover, I will look you in the face + this blessed day, if you will bide at the Clachan down + yonder." + </p> + <p> + "Mayhap you had as well keep away," said his comrade; and + turning his back on his former friend, he collected his + unwilling associates, assisted by the bailiff, who took some + real and some affected interest in seeing Wakefield + accommodated. + </p> + <p> + After spending some time in negotiating with more than one of + the neighbouring farmers, who could not, or would not, afford + the accommodation desired, Henry Wakefield, at last, and in + his necessity, accomplished his point by means of the + landlord of the alehouse at which Robin Oig and he had agreed + to pass the night, when they first separated from each other. + Mine host was content to let him turn his cattle on a piece + of barren moor, at a price little less than the bailiff had + asked for the disputed enclosure; and the wretchedness of the + pasture, as well as the price paid for it, were set down as + exaggerations of the breach of faith and friendship of his + Scottish crony. This turn of Wakefield's passions was + encouraged by the bailiff (who had his own reasons for being + offended against poor Robin, as having been the unwitting + cause of his falling into disgrace with his master), as well + as by the innkeper, and two or three chance guests, who + soothed the drover in his resentment against his quondam + associate,—some from the ancient grudge against the + Scots, which, when it exists any where, is to be found + lurking in the Border counties, and some from the general + love of mischief, which characterizes + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page287" name="page287"></a>[pg + 287]</span> mankind in all ranks of life, to the honour of + Adam's children be it spoken. Good John Barleycorn also, who + always heightens and exaggerates the prevailing passions, be + they angry or kindly, was not wanting in his offices on this + occasion; and confusion to false friends and hard masters, + was pledged in more than one tankard. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, Mr. Ireby found some amusement in detaining + the northern drover at his ancient hall. He caused a cold + round of beef to be placed before the Scot in the butler's + pantry, together with a foaming tankard of home-brewed, and + took pleasure in seeing the hearty appetite with which these + unwonted edibles were discussed by Robin Oig M'Combich. The + squire himself lighting his pipe, compounded between his + patrician dignity and his love of agricultural gossip, by + walking up and down while he conversed with his guest. + </p> + <p> + "I passed another drove," said the squire, with one of your + countrymen behind them, they were something less beasts than + your drove—doddies most of them; a big man was with + them—none of your kilts though, but a decent pair of + breeches;—d'ye know who he may be?" + </p> + <p> + "Hout ay—that might, could, and would pe Hughie + Morrison—I didna think he could hae peen sae weel up. + He has made a day on us; put his Argyle-shires will have + wearied shanks. How far was he pehind?" + </p> + <p> + "I think about six or seven miles," answered the squire, "for + I passed them at the Christenbury Cragg, and I overtook you + at the Hollan Bush. If his beasts be leg-weary, he will be + may be selling bargains." + </p> + <p> + "Na, na, Hughie Morrison is no the man for pargains—ye + maun come to some Highland body like Robin Oig hersell for + the like of these;—put I maun be wishing you good + night, and twenty of them, let alane ane, and I maun down to + the Clachan to see if the lad Henry Waakfelt is out of his + humdudgeons yet." + </p> + <p> + The party at the alehouse were still in full talk, and the + treachery of Robin Oig still the theme of conversation, when + the supposed culprit entered the apartment. His arrival, as + usually happens in such a case, put an instant stop to the + discussion of which he had furnished the subject, and he was + received by the company assembled with that chilling silence, + which more than a thousand exclamations tells an intruder + that he is unwelcome. Surprised and offended, but not + appalled by the reception which he experienced, Robin entered + with an undaunted, and even a haughty air, attempted no + greeting as he saw he was received with none, and placed + himself by the side of the fire, a little apart from a table, + at which Harry Wakefield, the bailiff, and two or three other + persons, were seated. The ample Cumbrian kitchen would have + afforded plenty of room even for a larger separation. + </p> + <p> + Robin, thus seated, proceeded to light his pipe, and call for + a pint of twopenny. + </p> + <p> + "We have no twopenny ale," answered Ralph Heskett, the + landlord; but as thou find'st thy own tobacco, its like thou + may'st find thine own liquor too—it's the wont of thy + country, I wot." + </p> + <p> + "Shame, goodman," said the landlady, a blithe, bustling + housewife, hastening herself to suply the guest with + liquor—"Thou knowest well enow what the strange man + wants, and it's thy trade to be a civil man. Thou shouldest + know, that if the Scot likes a small pot, he pays a sure + penny." + </p> + <p> + Without taking any notice of this nuptial dialogue, the + Highlander took the flagon in his hand, and, addressing the + company generally, drank the interesting toast of "Good + markets," to the party assembled. + </p> + <p> + "The better that the wind blew fewer dealers from the north," + said one of the farmers, and fewer Highland runts to eat up + the English meadows." + </p> + <p> + "Soul of my pody, put you are wrang there, my friend," + answered Robin, with composure, "it is your fat Englishmen + that eat up our Scots cattle, puir things." + </p> + <p> + "I wish there was a summat to eat up their drovers," said + another; "a plain Englishman canna make bread within a + kenning of them." + </p> + <p> + "Or an honest servant keep his master's favour, but they will + come sliding in between him and the sunshine," said the + bailiff. + </p> + <p> + "If these pe jokes," said Robin Oig, with the same composure, + "there is ower mony jokes upon one man." + </p> + <p> + "It is no joke, but downright earnest," said the bailiff. + "Harkye, Mr. Robin Ogg, or whatever is your name, it's right + we should tell you that we are all of one opinion, and that + is, that you, Mr. Robin Ogg, have behaved to our friend, Mr. + Harry Wakefield here, like a raff and a blackguard." + </p> + <p> + "Nae doubt, nae doubt," answered Robin with great composure; + "and you are a set of very feeling judges, for whose prains + or pehaviour I wad not gae a pinch of sneeshing. If Mr. Harry + Waakfelt kens where he is wranged, he kens where he may be + righted." + </p> + <p> + "He speaks truth," said Wakefield, who had listened to what + passed, divided between the offence which he had taken + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page288" name="page288"></a>[pg + 288]</span> at Robin's late behaviour, and the revival of his + habitual acts of friendship. + </p> + <p> + He now rose and went towards Robin, who got up from his seat + as he approached, and held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + "That's right, Harry—go it—serve him out!" + resounded on all sides—"tip him the nailer—show + him the mill." + </p> + <p> + "Hold your peace, all of you, and be——," said + Wakefield; and then addressing his comrade, he took him by + the extended hand, with something alike of respect and + defiance. "Robin," he said, "thou hast used me ill enough + this day; but if you mean, like a frank fellow, to shake + hands, and take a tussel for love on the sod, why I'll forgie + thee, man, and we shall be better friends than ever." + </p> + <p> + "And would it not pe petter to be cooed friends without more + of the matter?" said Robin; "we will be much petter + friendships with our panes hale than broken." + </p> + <p> + Harry Wakefield dropped the hand of his friend, or rather + threw it from him. + </p> + <p> + "I did not think I had been keeping company for three years + with a coward." + </p> + <p> + "Coward belongs to none of my name," said Robin, whose eyes + began to kindle, but keeping the command of his temper. "It + was no coward's legs or hands, Harry Waakfelt, that drew you + out of the fords of Fried, when you was drifting ower the + place rock, and every eel in the river expected his share of + you." + </p> + <p> + "And that is true enough, too," said the Englishman, struck + by the appeal. + </p> + <p> + "Adzooks!" exclaimed the bailiff—"sure Harry Wakefield, + the nattiest lad at Whitson Tryste, Wooler Fair, Carlisle + Sands, or Stagshaw Bank, is not going to show white feather? + Ah, this comes of living so long with kilts and + bonnets—men forget the use of their daddies." + </p> + <p> + "I may teach you, Master Fleecebumpkin, that I have not lost + the use of mine," said Wakefield, and then went on. "This + will never do, Robin. We must have a turn-up, or we shall be + the talk of the country side. I'll be d——d if I + hurt thee—I'll put on the gloves gin thou like. Come, + stand forward like a man." + </p> + <p> + "To pe peaten like a dog," said Robin; "is there any reason + in that? If you think I have done you wrong, I'll go before + your shudge, though I neither know his law nor his language." + </p> + <p> + A general cry of "No, no—no law, no lawyer! a bellyful + and be friends," was echoed by the bystanders. + </p> + <p> + "But," continued Robin, "if I am to fight, I have no skill to + fight like a jackanapes, with hands and nails." + </p> + <p> + "How would you fight then?" said his antagonist; "though I am + thinking it would be hard to bring you to the scratch any + how." + </p> + <p> + "I would fight with proadswords, and sink point on the first + plood drawn——- like a gentlemans." + </p> + <p> + A loud shout of laughter followed the proposal, which indeed + had rather escaped from poor Robin's swelling heart, than + been the dictates of his sober judgment. + </p> + <p> + "Gentleman, quotha!" was echoed on all sides, with a shout of + unextinguishable laughter; "a very pretty gentleman, God + wot—Canst get two swords for the gentleman to fight + with, Ralph Heskett?" + </p> + <p> + "No, but I can send to the armoury at Carlisle, and lend them + two forks to be making shift with in the meantime." + </p> + <p> + "Tush, man," said another, "the bonny Scots come into the + world with the blue bonnet on their heads, and dirk and + pistol at their belt." + </p> + <p> + "Best send post," said Mr. Fleecebumpkin, "to the squire of + Corby Castle to come and stand second to the + <i>gentleman</i>." + </p> + <p> + In the midst of this torrent of general ridicule, the + Highlander instinctively griped beneath the folds of his + plaid. + </p> + <p> + "But it's better not," he said in his own language. "A + hundred curses on the swine-eaters, who know neither decency + nor civility!" + </p> + <p> + "Make room, the pack of you," he said, advancing to the door. + </p> + <p> + But his former friend interposed his sturdy bulk, and opposed + his leaving the house; and when Robin Oig attempted to make + his way by force, he hit him down on the floor, with as much + ease as a boy bowls down a nine-pin. + </p> + <p> + "A ring, a ring!" was now shouted, until the dark rafters, + and the hams that hung on them, trembled again, and the very + platters on the <i>bink</i> clattered against each other. + "Well done, Harry."—"Give it him home, + Harry."—"Take care of him now—he sees his own + blood!" + </p> + <p> + Such were the exclamations, while the Highlander, starting + from the ground, all his coldness and caution lost in frantic + rage, sprung at his antagonist with the fury, the activity, + and the vindictive purpose of an incensed tiger-cat. But when + could rage encounter science and temper? Robin Oig again went + down in the unequal contest; and as the blow was necessarily + a severe one, he lay motionless on the floor of the kitchen. + The landlady ran to offer some aid, but Mr. Fleecebumpkin + would not permit her to approach. + </p> + <p> + "Let him alone," he said, "he will come to within time, and + come up to the scratch again. He has not got half his broth + yet." + </p> + <p> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page289" name="page289"></a>[pg + 289]</span> "He has got all I mean to give him though," said + his antagonist, whose heart began to relent towards his old + associate; "and I would rather by half give the rest to + yourself, Mr. Fleecebumpkin, for you pretend to know a thing + or two, and Robin had not art enough even to peel before + setting to, but fought with his plaid dangling about + him.—Stand up, Robin, my man! all friends now; and let + me hear the man that will speak a word against you, or your + country, for your sake." + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig was still under the dominion of his passion, and + eager to renew the onset; but being withheld on the one side + by the peace-making Dame Heskett, and on the other, aware + that Wakefield no longer meant to renew the combat, his fury + sunk into gloomy sullenness. + </p> + <p> + "Come, come, never grudge so much at it, man," said the + brave-spirited Englishman, with the placability of his + country; "shake hands, and we will be better friends than + ever." + </p> + <p> + "Friends!" exclaimed Robin Oig with strong + emphasis—"friends!—Never. Look to yourself, Harry + Waakfelt." + </p> + <p> + "Then the curse of Cromwell on your proud Scots stomach, as + the man says in the play, and you may do your worst and be + d——; for one man can say nothing more to another + after a tussel, than that he is sorry for it." + </p> + <p> + On these terms the friends parted; Robin Oig drew out, in + silence, a piece of money, threw it on the table, and then + left the alehouse. But turning at the door, he shook his hand + at Wakefield, pointing with his fore-finger upwards, in a + manner which might imply either a threat or a caution. He + then disappeared in the moonlight. + </p> + <p> + (<i>To be concluded in our next</i>.) + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <h2> + ARCANA OF SCIENCE. + </h2> + <hr /> + <p> + <i>Sheppey</i>.—The isle of Sheppey is quickly giving + way to the sea, and if measures are not hereafter taken to + remedy this, possibly in a century or two hence its name may + be required to be obliterated from the map. Whole acres, with + houses upon them, have been carried away in a single storm, + while clay shallows, sprinkled with sand and gravel, which + stretch a full mile beyond the verge of the cliff, over which + the sea now sweeps, demonstrate the original area of the + island. From the blue clay of which these cliffs are composed + may be culled out specimens of all the fishes, fruits, and + trees, which abounded in Britain before the birth of Noah; + and the traveller may consequently handle fish which swam, + and fruit which grew, in the days of the antediluvians, all + now converted into sound stone, by the petrifying qualities + of the soil in which they are imbedded. Here are lobsters, + crabs, and nautili, presenting almost the same reality as + those we now see crawling and floating about; branches of + trees, too, in as perfect order as when lopped from their + parent stems; and trunks of them, twelve feet in length and + two or three diameter, fit, in all appearance, for the + operations of the saw, with great varieties of fruits, + resembling more those of tropical climates than of cold + latitudes like ours, one species having a large kernel, with + an adherent stalk, as complete as when newly plucked from the + tree that produced it. An interesting collection of these + relics of a former world may be seen at a watchmaker's on the + cliff, at Margate, including the most remarkable productions + of the isle of Sheppey. + </p> + <center> + <i>The Camelopard</i>. + </center> + <div class="figure" style="width: 50%; float: right;"> + <a href="images/280-2.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/280-2.png" alt="The Camelopard." /></a> + </div> + <p> + As a live camelopard has been sent to London and another to + Paris, the history and habits of these animals have excited + some interest. At a meeting of the Academy of Sciences in + Paris, on the 2nd of July last, M. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire + observed that naturalists were wrong in supposing that there + was only one species of the camelopard. The animal now in + Paris differs from the Cape of Good Hope species by several + essential anatomical characters, and he proposes to + distinguish it by the name of the <i>Giraffe of Sennaar</i>, + the country from which it comes. Some natives of Egypt having + come to see the one in Paris in the costume of the country, + the animal gave evident proofs of joy, and + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page290" name="page290"></a>[pg + 290]</span> loaded them with caresses. This fact is explained + by the circumstance that the Giraffe has an ardent affection + for its Arabian keeper, and that it naturally is delighted + with the sight of the turban and the costume of its keeper. + </p> + <p> + Some authors have proved the mildness and docility of the + camelopard, while others represent it as incapable of being + tamed. This difference is ascribed by M. Saint-Hilaire to + difference of education. Four or five years ago a male + Giraffe, extremely savage, was brought to Constantinople. The + keeper of the present Giraffe had also the charge of this + one, and he ascribes its savageness entirely to the manner in + which it was treated. At the same time M. Mongez read a + memoir on the testimony of ancient authors respecting the + Giraffe. Moses is the first author who speaks of it. As + Aristotle does not mention it, M. Mongez supposes that it was + unknown to the Greeks, and that it did not then exist in + Egypt, otherwise Aristotle, who travelled there, must have + known about it. In the year 708 of Rome, Julius Caesar + brought one to Europe, and the Roman emperors afterwards + exhibited them at Rome, either for the games in the circus, + or in their triumphs over the African princes. Albertus + Magnus, in his <i>Treatise de Animalibus</i>, is the first + modern author who speaks of the Giraffe. In 1486, one of the + Medici family possessed one at Florence, where it lived for a + considerable time. + </p> + <p> + In its native country the Giraffe browses on the twigs of + trees, preferring plants of the Mimosa genus; but it appears + that it can without inconvenience subsist on other vegetable + food. The one kept at Florence fed on the fruits of the + country, and chiefly on apples, which it begged from the + inhabitants of the first storeys of the houses. The one now + in Paris, from its having been accustomed in early life to + the food prepared by the Arabs for their camels, is fed on + mixed grains bruised, such as maize, barley, &c., and it + is furnished with milk for drink morning and evening. It + however willingly accepts fruits and the branches of the + acacia which are presented to it. It seizes the leaves with + its long rugous and narrow tongue by rolling it about them, + and seems annoyed when it is obliged to take any thing from + the ground, which it seems to do with difficulty. To + accomplish this it stretches first one, then the other of its + long fore-legs asunder, and it is not till after repeated + attempts that it is able to seize the objects with its lips + and tongue. + </p> + <p> + The pace of the Giraffe is an amble, though when pursued it + flies with extreme rapidity, but the small size of its lungs + prevents it from supporting a lengthened chase. The Giraffe + defends itself against the lion, its principal enemy, with + its fore feet, with which it strikes with such force as often + to repulse him. The specimen in the museum at Paris is about + two years and a half old. + </p> + <p> + The name <i>Camelo-pardalis</i> (camel-leopard) was given by + the Romans to this animal, from a fancied combination of the + characters of the camel and leopard; but its ancient + denomination was <i>Zurapha</i>, from which the name Giraffe + has been adopted.—<i>Brewster's Journal</i>. + </p> + <center> + <i>Sugar</i>. + </center> + <p> + About 3,700,000 cwt. of sugar are annually imported from the + West Indies. An advance in price, therefore, of one penny per + pound is a charge on the public of 1,726,600<i>l.</i> a year, + being more than one-third of the gross amount of the duty + levied at the Custom-house for the revenue. + </p> + <center> + <i>Silk</i>. + </center> + <p> + Lord Kingston has upwards of 30,000 mulberry-trees growing + upon one estate in Ireland, and has already sent raw silk + into the market. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + SINGULAR ASSASSINATION IN KINCARDINESHIRE. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <p> + The fate of one of the sheriffs of this county, in former + times, merits notice, especially as connected with a ruin in + the parish of Eccliscraig, formerly a place of great + strength, being erected on a perpendicular and peninsulated + rock, sixty feet above the sea, at the mouth of a small + rivulet. It was built in consequence of a murder committed in + the reign of James the First, and the circumstance deserves + to be recorded, as it affords a specimen of the barbarity of + the times. Melville, sheriff of Kincardineshire, had, by a + vigorous exercise of his authority, rendered himself so very + obnoxious to the barons of the county, that they had made + repeated complaints to the king. On the last of these + occasions the king, in a fit of impatience, happened to say + to Barclay, of Mathers, "I wish that sheriff were sodden and + supped in brue." Barclay instantly withdrew, and reported to + his neighbours the king's words, which they resolved + literally to fulfil. Accordingly, the conspirators invited + the unsuspecting Melville to a hunting party in the forest of + Garvock; where, having a fire kindled, and a cauldron of + water boiling on it, they rushed to the spot, stripped the + sheriff naked, and threw him headlong into the boiling + vessel: after which, on <span class="pagenum"><a id="page291" + name="page291"></a>[pg 291]</span> pretence of fulfilling the + royal mandate, each swallowed a spoonful of the broth. After + this cannibal feast, Barclay, to screen himself from the + vengeance of the king, built this fortress, which before the + invention of gunpowder must have been impregnable. Some of + the conspirators were afterwards pardoned. One of the pardons + is said to be still in existence; and the reason assigned for + granting it is, that the conspirator was within the tenth + degree of kin to Macduff, thane of Fife. + </p> + <p> + CHARLES STUART. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + USE OF HORSE-CHESTNUTS. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <p> + These nuts are much used in France and in Switzerland, in + whitening not only of hemp and flax, but also of silk and + wool. They contain a soapy juice, fit for washing of linens + and stuffs, for milling of caps and stockings, &c., and + for fulling of stuffs and cloths. + </p> + <p> + Twenty nuts are sufficient for five quarts of water. They + must be first peeled, which can be done by children, then + rasped or dried, and ground in a malt-mill, or any other + common steel mill. The water must be soft, either rain or + river water, for hard well water will by no means do. When + the nuts are rasped or ground, they must be steeped in the + water quite cold, which soon becomes frothy, (as it does with + soap,) and then turns white as milk. It must be well stirred + at first with a stick, and then, after standing some time to + settle, must be strained, or poured off quite clear. Linen + washed in this liquor, and afterwards rinsed in clear running + water, takes an agreeable light sky-blue colour. It takes + spots out of both linen and woollen, and never damages or + injures the cloth. Poultry will eat the meal of them, if it + is steeped in hot water, and mixed with an equal quantity of + pollard. The nuts also are eat by some cows, and without + hurting their milk; but they are excellent for horses whose + wind is injured. + </p> + <p> + A.B. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + A FETCH. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "I do believe," (as Byron cries,) + </p> + <p> + "There is a haunted spot, + </p> + <p> + And I can point out where it lies, + </p> + <p> + But cannot—where 'tis not. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Turn gentle people, lend an ear, + </p> + <p> + Unto my simple tale, + </p> + <p> + It will not draw a single tear + </p> + <p> + Nor make the heart bewail, + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + 'Tis of a ghost! O ladies fair! + </p> + <p> + Start not with sore affright, + </p> + <p> + It will not harm a single hair, + </p> + <p> + Nor 'make it stand upright." + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Attend, it was but yesternight, + </p> + <p> + I in my garret sat, + </p> + <p> + I saw—no, nothing yet I saw, + </p> + <p> + But something went pit-pat. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + So did my heart responsively, + </p> + <p> + Beat like a prison'd bird, + </p> + <p> + That's newly caught—but no reply + </p> + <p> + I made, to what I heard. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + It nearer came—'Angels,' I cried, + </p> + <p> + 'And Ministers of Grace defend.' + </p> + <p> + Yet nothing I as yet descried, + </p> + <p> + My hair stood all on end. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + My breath was short, I'm sure my eye + </p> + <p> + Was dim, so was the light, + </p> + <p> + I thought that I that hour should die, + </p> + <p> + With sad and sore affright. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + And then came o'er me—what came o'er? + </p> + <p> + Some spectre grim I'll bet, + </p> + <p> + O tell me!—why at every pore— + </p> + <p> + A very heavy sweat. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Poh, don't delay the wond'rous tale, + </p> + <p> + What follow'd? tell me that, + </p> + <p> + (I feel my heart and limbs too fail) + </p> + <p> + The same thing, pit-a-pat. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + And then there came before my eyes, + </p> + <p> + I pray thee 'list, O list,' + </p> + <p> + You fill my heart with dread surprise + </p> + <p> + What was it? why a mist. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + And then around my head there play'd + </p> + <p> + A flame, so wond'rous bright, + </p> + <p> + That made me more than all afraid— + </p> + <p> + My wig had caught the light. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + And there came wand'ring by at last, + </p> + <p> + The same thing, pit-a-pat, + </p> + <p> + I found as 'cross the room it past, + </p> + <p> + The cat had got a rat. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <p> + MAY. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + TEA. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "The Muses' friend, <i>tea</i>, does our fancy aid, + </p> + <p> + Repress those vapours which the head invade." + </p> + <p> + WALLER. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <p> + The tea-tree loves to grow in valleys, at the foot of + mountains, and upon the banks of rivers, where it enjoys a + southern exposure to the sun, though it endures considerable + variations of heat and cold, as it flourishes in the northern + clime of Peking, as well as about Canton; and it is observed + that the degree of cold at Peking is as severe in winter as + in some parts of Europe. However, the best tea grows in a + mild, temperate climate, the country about Nanking producing + better tea than either Peking or Canton, betwixt which places + it is situated. The root resembles that of the peach-tree; + the leaves are green, longish at the point, and narrow, an + inch and half long, and jagged all round. The flower is much + like that of the wild rose, but smaller. The fruit is of + different forms, sometimes round, + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page292" name="page292"></a>[pg + 292]</span> sometimes long, sometimes triangular, and of the + ordinary size of a bean, containing two or three seeds, of a + mouse colour, including each a kernel. These are the seeds by + which the plant is propagated, a number, from six to twelve, + or fifteen, being promiscuously put into one hole, four or + five inches deep, at certain distances from each other. The + seeds vegetate without any other care, though the more + industrious annually remove the weeds and manure the land. + The leaves which succeed are not fit to be plucked before the + third year's growth, at which period they are plentiful, and + in their prime. In about seven years the shrub rises to a + man's height, and as it then bears few leaves, and grows + slowly, it is cut down to the stem, which occasions an + exuberance of fresh shoots and leaves the succeeding summer. + In Japan, the tea-tree is cultivated round the borders of the + fields, without regard to soil, but as the Chinese export + great quantities of tea, they plant whole fields with it. The + tea-trees that yield often the finest leaves, grow on the + steep declivities of hills, where it is dangerous and in some + cases impracticable to collect them. The Chinese are said to + vanquish this difficulty by a singular contrivance. The large + monkeys which inhabit these cliffs are irritated, and in + revenge they break off the branches and throw them down, so + that the leaves are thus obtained. The leaves should be dried + as soon as possible after they are gathered. The Chinese are + always taking tea, especially at meals; it is the chief treat + with which they regale their friends, but they use it without + the addition of sugar and milk. Tea was first introduced into + Europe by the Dutch East India Company very early in the + seventeenth century, and a great quantity of it was brought + over from Holland by Lord Arlington and Lord Ossory about the + year 1666, at which time it sold for 60s. per pound. Tea + exhilarates without intoxication, and its enlivening + qualities are equally felt by the sedentary student and the + active labourer. Dr. Johnson dearly loved tea, and drank + great quantities of this elegant and popular beverage, and so + does P.T.W. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + PORSON. + </h3> + <p> + The late professor having once exasperated a disputant by the + dryness of his sarcasm, the petulant opponent thus addressed + him:—"Mr. Porson, I beg leave to tell you, sir, that my + opinion of you is perfectly contemptible." Person replied, "I + never knew an opinion of yours, sir, which was not + contemptible." + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + THE DRAMA AND ITS PROFESSORS. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <p> + It is remarkable with what difference actors were treated + among the ancients. At Athens, they were held in such esteem, + as to be sometimes appointed to discharge embassies and other + negotiations; whereas, at Rome, if a citizen became an actor, + he thereby forfeited his freedom. Among the moderns, actors + are best treated in England; the French having much the same + opinion of them that the Romans had; for though an actor of + talent, in Paris, is more regarded than here, he nevertheless + is deeply degraded. He may die amid applauses on the stage, + but at his natural death, he must pass to his grave, without + a prayer or <i>de profundis</i>, unless a minister of + religion receives his last sigh. + </p> + <p> + Cromwell and his Puritans had a holy horror of actors. They + pronounced them Sons of Belial! and professors of + abomination. During the whole reign of the Republican + Parliament, and Protectorate, the theatres of that day were + closed, or, if opened by stealth, were subject to the visits + of the emissaries of "Praise God Barebones," "Fight the Good + Fight," and their crew. The actors were driven off the stage + by soldiers, and the cant word of that period is still + recorded, "Enter red coat, exit hat and cloak." William + Prynne was celebrated for his writings against the immorality + of the stage, and the furious invectives of Jeremy Collier, + are still extant; his pen was roused by Dryden's <i>Spanish + Friar</i>, and Congreve's witty, but licentious comedies. + Collier inveighed without mercy, but he certainly did much to + reform the stage. Our Evangelicals and Methodists denounce + the histrionic art to this day, with more than the zeal of + the Church of Rome. But a follower of Wesley or Whitfield + would not enter the den of abomination. Here, however, we + take care all our comedies shall be purified, and our + tragedies free, even from an oath; both are subject to the + censor's unsparing pen, and must be subsequently licensed by + the Lord Chamberlain. + </p> + <p> + The actors in England, have, it is true, only become + respectable within the last half century, and though they are + termed his majesty's servants, yet an <i>unrepealed</i> + statute denounces them as vagabonds. As a body, numerous in + itself, they are as free from crime as any other associated + body or profession of men, and yet do they "his majesty's + servants" continue to lay under the stigma which the above + unrepealed act fixes upon them. + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page293" name="page293"></a>[pg + 293]</span> This is perfectly anomalous, and it was + spiritedly denounced by Sir Walter Scott, when on a recent + and interesting occasion he nobly and manfully declared "Its + professors had been stigmatized; and laws had been passed + against them less dishonourable to them than to the statesman + by whom they were proposed, and to the legislators by whom + they were passed." To repeal, therefore, an act nugatory in + itself, would not add to the reputation of the profession, + nor give a license to further abuse; but it would be an act + of justice, and remove a prejudice unjustly attached to the + professors of a difficult art. + </p> + <p> + The critical pen of Mrs. Inchbald justly remarks, "To the + honour of a profession long held in contempt by the + wise—and still contemned by the weak—Shakspeare, + the pride of Britain, was a player." To the illustrious bard, + the modern drama is indebted for its excellence. His writings + will remain for ever the grandest monument of a genius which + opened to him the whole heart of man, all the mines of fancy, + all the stores of nature, and gave him power beyond all other + writers, to move, astonish, and delight mankind. In the + drama, the most interesting emotions are excited; the + dangerous passions of hate, envy, avarice, and pride, with + all their innumerable train of attendant vices, are detected + and exposed. Love, friendship, gratitude, and all those + active and generous virtues which warm the heart and exalt + the mind, are held up as objects of emulation. And what can + be a more effectual method of softening the ferocity, and + improving the minds of the inconsiderate? The heart is melted + by the scene, and ready to receive an impression—either + to warn the innocent, or to appal the guilty; and numbers of + those who have neither abilities nor time for deriving + advantage from reading, are powerfully impressed through the + medium of the eyes and ears, with those important truths + which while they illuminate the understanding, correct the + heart. The moral laws of the drama are said to have an effect + next after those conveyed from the pulpit, or promulgated in + courts of justice. Mr. Burke, indeed, has gone so far as to + observe that "the theatre is a better school of moral + sentiment than churches." The drama, therefore, has a right + to find a place; and to its professors are we indebted for + what may justly be considered one of the highest of all + intellectual gratifications. + </p> + <p> + F.K.Y. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + MEMORY. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + How many a mortal bears a heavy chain, + </p> + <p> + Of bitter sorrow, 'neath thy iron reign, + </p> + <p> + And many a one, whose harder fate has given, + </p> + <p> + Some early woes, by thee to madness driven, + </p> + <p> + Sees the sad vision of some bygone day, + </p> + <p> + And thinks on what he hath seen with dismay: + </p> + <p> + So some lone murderer, wanders o'er the world + </p> + <p> + By thy dread arm to desperation hurl'd; + </p> + <p> + In vain he prays, or bends the lowly knee, + </p> + <p> + With fiendlike power, thou dragg'st him back with thee, + </p> + <p> + Point'st to some scene of early guilt and woe, + </p> + <p> + Opening the source from whence his sorrows flow. + </p> + <p> + As round the bark which feels the tempest's shock, + </p> + <p> + The lightning plays, and shows the fatal rock, + </p> + <p> + So memory brings our sorrows all to light + </p> + <p> + With vivid truth presents them to the sight; + </p> + <p> + Pursues the wretch who else some joy might find, + </p> + <p> + To fix her seat of empire in his mind. + </p> + <p> + As desert lakes in sad illusion fly, + </p> + <p> + Before the weary traveller's cheated eye + </p> + <p> + So memory shows, those hopes we still would cherish. + </p> + <p> + Pleased but to fade, allured us but to perish. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <p> + M.B.S. + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <h2> + SPIRIT OF THE PUBLIC JOURNALS. + </h2> + <hr /> + <h3> + ON COALHEAVERS. + </h3> + <p> + Although in this age of all but universal hypocrisy and + make-believe, every man has at least two fashions of one + countenance, it is in dress principally that most men are + most unlike themselves. But the coalheaver always sticks + close to the attire of his station; he alone wears the + consistent and befitting garb of his forefathers; he alone + has not discarded "the napless vesture of humility," to + follow the always expensive, and often absurd fashions of his + superiors. All ungalled of him is each courtier's heel or + great man's kibe. Yet, is not even his every-day clothing + unseemly, or his aspect unprepossessing. He casts as broad + and proper a shadow in the sun as any other man. Black he is, + indeed, but comely, like the daughters of Jerusalem.—To + begin with the hat which he has honoured with a + preference—what are your operas or your fire-shovels + beside it? they must instantly (on a fair comparison) sink + many degrees below zero in the scale of contempt. In a word, + I would make bold to assert that it unites in perfection the + two grand requisites of a head covering, beauty and comfort. + Gentlemen may smile at this if they will, and take exception + to my taste; but, I ask, does the modern round hat, whatever + the insignificant <span class="pagenum"><a id="page294" + name="page294"></a>[pg 294]</span> variations of its form, + possess either quality? No, not a jot of it. One would think, + by our pertinacious adherence to the head-ach giving, + circular conformation, that we wished to show our anger at + the Almighty for not shaping our caputs like cylinders. In + fine, though the parson's and the quaker's hat has each its + several merits, commend me to the fan-tailed <i>shallow</i>. + The flap part attached to the cap seems, at first sight, as + to use, supernecessary, although so ornamental withal. It no + doubt (as its name, indeed indicates) had its origin in + gallantry, and was invented in the age of fans, for the + purpose of cooling their mistresses' bosoms, heated—as + they would necessarily be—at fair time, by their + gravel-grinding walks, under a fervid sun, to the elegant + revels of West-end, of Greenwich, or of Tothill-fields. + Breeches, rejected by common consent of young and old alike, + cling to the legs of the coalheaver with an abiding fondness, + as to the last place of refuge; and, on gala-days, a dandy + might die of envy to mark the splendour of those nether + integuments—which he has not soul enough to dare to + wear—of brilliant eye-arresting blue, or glowing + scarlet plush, glittering in the sun's rays, giving and + taking glory! But enough of the dress of these select + "true-born Englishmen"—for right glad I am to state + that there are but <i>two</i> Scotch coalheavers on the whole + river, and <i>no</i> Irish. I beg leave to return to the more + important consideration of their manners. Most people you + meet in your walks in the common thoroughfare of London, + glide, shuffle, or crawl onward, as if they conscientiously + thought they had no manner of right to tread the earth but on + sufferance. Not so our coalheaver. Mark how erect <i>he</i> + walks! how firm a keel he presents to the vainly breasting + human tide that comes rolling on with a show of opposition to + his onward course! It is he, and he only, who preserves, in + his gait and in his air, the self-sustained and conscious + dignity of the first-created man. Surrounded by an inferior + creation, he gives the wall to none. That pliancy of temper, + which is wont to make itself known by the waiving a point or + renouncing a principle for others' advantage, in him has no + place; he either knows it not, or else considers it a poor, + mean-spirited, creeping baseness, altogether unworthy of his + imitation, and best befitted with ineffable contempt. He + neither dreads the contact of the baker—the Scylla of + the metropolitan peripatetic, nor yet shuns the dire + collision of the chimney-sweep—his Charybdis. Try to + pass him as he walks leisurely on, making the solid earth + ring with his bold tread, and you will experience more + difficulties in the attempt than did that famous admiral, + Bartholomew Diaz, when he first doubled the Cape of Storms. + Or let us suppose, that haply you allow your frail carcass to + go full drive against his sturdiness, when lo!—in + beautiful illustration of those doctrines in projectiles, + that relate to the concussion of moving bodies—you fly + off at an angle "right slick" into the middle of the + carriage-way; whence a question of some interest presently + arises, whether you will please to be run over by a short or + a long stage.—But to return. Who hesitates to make way + for a coalheaver? As for their drays—as + <i>consecutive</i> a species of vehicles as a body can be + stopped by—every one knows they make way for + themselves. + </p> + <p> + I one Sunday met a party of my favourites in St. Paul's + cathedral. They seemed to view with becoming respect and even + awe that splendid place; and they listened to and observed, + with apparent profound attention, the cathedral service. Yet + I must confess my favourable opinion of their grave looks was + rather staggered by overhearing afterwards one of them say to + his neighbour, casting a look all round the while, "My eyes, + Tom, what lots o' <i>coals</i> this here place would hold." + Perhaps the observation was meant in honour. + </p> + <p> + <i>Monthly Magazine</i>. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + TRAVELLING FARE. + </h3> + <p> + If you shut yourself up for some fifty hours or so in a + mail-coach, that keeps wheeling along at the rate of ten + miles an hour, and changes horses in half a minute, + certainly, for obvious reasons, the less you eat and drink + the better; and perhaps a few hundred daily drops of + laudanum, or equivalent grains of opium, would be advisable, + so that the transit from London to Edinburgh might be + performed in a phantasma. But a free agent ought to live well + on his travels—some degrees better, without doubt, than + when at home. People seldom live very well at home. There is + always something requiring to be eaten up, that it may not be + lost, which destroys the soothing and satisfactory symmetry + of an unexceptionable dinner. We have detected the same duck + through many unprincipled disguises, playing a different part + in the farce of domestic economy, with a versatility hardly + to have been expected in one of the most generally despised + of the web-footed tribe. When travelling at one's own sweet + will, one feeds at a different inn every meal; and, except + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page295" name="page295"></a>[pg + 295]</span> when the coincidence of circumstances is against + you, there is an agreeable variety both in the natural and + artificial disposition of the dishes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Blackwood's Magazine</i>. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + ENGLISH FRUITS. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>Continued from page 231</i>.) + </p> + <p> + <i>The Currant</i>—The native place of this useful + fruit is not exactly ascertained; nearly allied to the + gooseberry, it receives the same treatment, shows the same + changes, and may be further improved by the same means; a + cross between the white Dutch and red, might be a valuable + mule. It is probable the black also may be induced to sport + from that steady character it has hitherto maintained; there + are but few domesticated plants but which (like animals) + depart, in some way or other, from their native caste. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Apple</i>.—It is difficult to find adequate + terms to set forth the value of the advantages which have + accrued to mankind from the cultivation of this deservedly + high-prized fruit. One circumstance in the history of the + apple must not pass unnoticed here, viz., the deterioration + of the old sorts, which regaled and were the boast of our + forefathers a century ago. It is the opinion of an eminent + orchardist that as the apple is an artificial production, + and, as such, has its stages of youth, maturity, and old age, + it cannot, in its period of decrepitude, be by any means + renovated to its pristine state, either by pruning or cutting + down, changing its place, or by transferring its parts to + young and vigorous stocks; and that, in whatever station it + may be placed, it carries with it the decay and diseases of + its parent. This is the most rational account which has been + given of this indisputable fact; and though its accuracy has + been called in question by some naturalists, the general + failure in our old orchards, and the difficulties in forming + new ones with the old favourite sorts, is a decisive proof + that such deterioration exists. It is therefore the chief + object of the modern pomologist, to obtain from seeds of the + best <i>wildings</i> new varieties wherewith to form new and + profitable orchards; and which may be expected to continue in + health and fertility, as the old sorts have done, for the + next century. + </p> + <p> + The foregoing are the fruits found wild in our climate; the + difference in their aboriginal and cultivated state has been + pointed out; we shall now give short descriptions of foreign + fruits, which have been partly naturalized, the management of + which forms so considerable a share of the gardener's art and + attention. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Apricot</i>.—It is supposed that this fruit is a + native of Africa: from thence it appears to have come through + Persia and Greece to us, with the name "a praecox," + significant of its earliness. There are several varieties + which have been obtained by means similar to those already + mentioned; and there is room for further exertion in + endeavouring to improve the size of the fruit, or any other + desirable quality. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Peach</i>—This delicate and excellent fruit is a + striking instance of what judicious cultivation may produce. + The common almond has always been considered the original + stock of this monument of skill and assiduity. The estimation + in which it is held, and the care and expense incurred in its + cultivation both in forcing-houses and in the open air, is + proof of its superiority: and no fruit repays the labour of + the attendant, or the expense of the owner, more bountifully + than this. Seedlings of this fruit are, if we can credit what + is written and said of it, less inclined to depart from the + properties or qualities of the parent, than most others of + our improved fruits. In America, they are in common and + general cultivation. No trouble is bestowed in either + layering (which is practicable), or budding them. Sowing a + quantity of the stones, they are sure to pick out from among + the seedlings as many good sorts as they may wish to + cultivate: few of these may be exactly like the parent; some + may be superior, but all are passable, especially if the + young trees have been selected by a skilful hand; and this he + is enabled to do, merely from the appearance of the wood and + leaves. Many new sorts have lately been obtained and brought + into notice in this country; and this facility of the peach + to multiply its varieties will no doubt be taken advantage of + by propagators. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Nectarine</i>.—This, it is allowed by all + writers, is certainly a child of cultivation: there being no + wild plant from which it could be derived, except the almond. + It is therefore a collateral branch with, or rather of, the + peach: of this no better proof can be given, than the + circumstance that nectarines are sometimes produced by a + peach tree. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Orange</i>.—This endless family of fruits it is + probable had the small but useful wild lime for its + progenitor. The monstrous shaddock, citrons of all shapes and + sizes, oranges and lemons, are all varieties, obtained in the + course of long cultivation. + </p> + <p> + (<i>To be concluded in our next</i>.) + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <p> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page296" name="page296"></a>[pg + 296]</span> + </p> + <h2> + THE GATHERER. + </h2> + <p> + "I am but a Gatherer and disposer of other men's + stuff."—<i>Wotton</i>. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + TO CHLOE, AT SIXTY. + </h3> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Those teeth, as white as orient pearls + </p> + <p> + Stolen from th' Indian deep, + </p> + <p> + Those locks, whose light and auburn curls + </p> + <p> + Soft on thy shoulders sleep, + </p> + <p> + Expose a woman to the sight + </p> + <p> + None but old friends can know; + </p> + <p> + Thy locks were grey, thy teeth not white, + </p> + <p> + Some twenty years ago. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <hr /> + <p> + Wilkes used to say, that a gentleman did not always require a + footman to carry a parcel, for there were three things which + he might always carry openly in his hand,—a book, a + paper of snuff, and a string of fish. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + HEREDITARY TALENT IN ACTORS. + </h3> + <p> + "Families are chequered as in brains, so in + bulk."—FULLER. + </p> + <p> + The children of many obscure performers have become eminent: + but there are very few instances in which the descendant of a + considerable actor or actress has been distinguished. To take + instances within recent recollection, or of the present day, + for example—Mr. Elliston has a son upon the stage: with + none of the striking talent of the father. Mr. Henry Siddons, + the son of Mrs. Siddons, was a very bad actor indeed. Lewis + had two sons upon the stage, neither of them of any value. + Mr. Dowton has two sons (or had), in the same situation. And + Mrs. Glover's two daughters will never rise above mediocrity. + On the other hand, Mr. Macready and Mr. Wallack, are both + sons of very low actors; and the late Mr. John Bannister and + Mr. Tokely were similarly descended. Almost the only modern + instance of the immediate descendant of a valuable performer + turning out well, was in the case of Mrs. Jordan's daughter, + Mrs. Alsop; who was very nearly as good an actress as her + mother. We doubt, too, if there is an instance on record of a + very young man being a considerable actor. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + PRISON TORTURE. + </h3> + <p> + A horrible instance of human vengeance occurred a short time + since, at Minden, in Westphalia. The object was a person who, + from conscientious motives, peculiar to the religious body of + which he was a member, had refused to serve in the militia. + He was placed in a cell, the floor and sides of which were + closely studded with projecting spikes, or pieces of + sharpened iron resembling the blades of knives. The + individual remained in this state for twenty-four hours, and + the punishment was repeated at three distinct intervals. It + is considered a rare occurrence for a person to survive the + second infliction of this species of cruelty. In this + instance, however, the sufferer did not perish—<i>From + the last Report of the Prison Discipline Society</i>. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE. + </h3> + <p> + As her Grace was one day rambling in the neighbourhood of + Chiswick, she was overtaken by a violent storm, and + accordingly took shelter, in a cottage where she happened to + be unknown. Among other topics she introduced with her usual + affability, she asked the poor woman if she knew the Duchess + of Devonshire? "Know her, (answered the woman,) + <i>everybody</i> has cause to know her here; never was there + a better lady born." "I am afraid you are mistaken, (said her + Grace); from what I understand of her, she is no better than + she should be." "I am sure <i>you</i> are no better than you + should be, (returned the poor woman,) to find fault with the + Duchess; but you'll never be worthy to wipe her shoes." "Well + then, (rejoined her Grace,) I must be beholden to <i>you</i>, + as they are at present very dirty." The good woman perceiving + the awkward mistake, ran to perform the office with great + humility, and received an ample reward. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + KITCHEN CONUNDRUM. + </h3> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "Come Thomas," says Kitty, "pray make us a pun,— + </p> + <p> + You're goodnatured and never refuse;" + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "Ask coachee," says Tom, "<i>he's</i> the fellow for + Fun,— + </p> + <p> + For he knows the way to <i>a-mews</i>." + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Says coachee, "Why Thomas you puzzle my brains, + </p> + <p> + For you never can bridle your wit;" + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "But how comes it, that I, tho' exposed to the + <i>reins</i> + </p> + <p> + Ev'ry day, never <i>suffer a bit</i>?" + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"></div> + </div> + <hr /> + <h3> + DEAR TIMES. + </h3> + <p> + After the union with Ireland, when the Irish members had + taken their seats, one of them, in the heat of his maiden + speech, blustered out, "Now, dare Mr. Speaker," which, of + course, set the house in an immoderate fit of laughter. When + the tumult had subsided, Sheridan observed, "that the + honourable gentleman was perfectly in order, since, thanks to + the ministry, everything at that time was immoderately + <i>dear</i>." + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <p> + <i>Printed and published by J. LIMBIRD. 143. Strand, (near + Somerset House,) and sold by all Newsmen and Booksellers</i>. + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11369 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/11369-h/images/280-1.png b/11369-h/images/280-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..57e9d88 --- /dev/null +++ b/11369-h/images/280-1.png diff --git a/11369-h/images/280-2.png b/11369-h/images/280-2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..1602277 --- /dev/null +++ b/11369-h/images/280-2.png diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and Instruction. + Volume X, No. 280, Saturday, October 27, 1827. + +Author: Various + +Release Date: February 29, 2004 [EBook #11369] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: US-ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MIRROR OF LITERATURE, NO. 280 *** + + + + +Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Keith M. Eckrich, David Garcia and the +Online Distributed Proofreading Team. + + + + + + +</pre> + + <hr class="full" /> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page281" name="page281"></a>[pg + 281]</span> + <h1> + THE MIRROR<br /> + OF<br /> + LITERATURE, AMUSEMENT, AND INSTRUCTION. + </h1> + <hr class="full" /> + <table width="100%" summary="Banner"> + <tr> + <td align="left"> + <b>VOL. X, NO. 280.]</b> + </td> + <td align="center"> + <b>SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1827.</b> + </td> + <td align="right"> + <b>[PRICE 2d.</b> + </td> + </tr> + </table> + <hr class="full" /> + <h2> + Illustrations of Shakspeare. + </h2> + <hr /> + <h3> + NO. XIII. ELSINEUR, FROM HAMLET'S GARDEN. + </h3> + <hr /> + <div class="figure" style="width: 100%;"> + <a href="images/280-1.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/280-1.png" + alt="Elsineur, from Hamlet's Garden." /></a> + </div> + <p> + We augur that the above will prove one of the most + interesting of our Shakspearian Illustrations, inasmuch as + the garden where Hamlet was wont to revel in the fitful + dreams of his philosophic melancholy, is holy ground. "The + lapse of ages and the fables of the poet," says a delighted + visiter, "were all lost in the reality of Shakspeare's + painting: the moment of his scene seemed present with me; and + eager to traverse every part of this consecrated ground, I + had already followed Hamlet every where; I had measured the + deep shadows of the platform, encountered the grey ghost of + the Royal Dane, had killed Polonius in the queen's closet, + and drowned poor Ophelia in the willowed stream. The modern + aspect of Elsineur is, however, far from inviting, and not a + single vestige presents itself that bears the smallest trace + of this town ever having been hallowed by the mausoleum of an + Ophelia, or proudly decorated with the stately walls of a + royal palace." + </p> + <p> + About a mile from the town is a place that bears the name of + Hamlet's garden. Here is no relic of ancient interest, + excepting the tradition, which affirms that to be the spot + where once stood the Danish palace, and where was enacted + that tragedy, which has been so gloriously immortalized by + the genius of our great dramatic bard. + </p> + <p> + The present edifice is erected on the brow of a gently rising + hill, the summit of which is gained by means of a winding + walk cut through a small shrubbery. In the surrounding + prospect, the town of Elsineur, on the plain beneath, + presents itself ill-built, red, and without any public + building, or spire, to vary its sameness. Far to the left of + the city stands the castle of Kronenberg, a bold and fine + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page282" name="page282"></a>[pg + 282]</span> feature; the waves of the Cattegut roll at its + feet; and are bounded on the opposite side by the Swedish + coast. When the annexed sketch was made, 400 sail of + merchants' ships were lying there at anchor, which added + greatly to the interest of the picture. The small village on + the distant shore is Elsenberg. The forest of Kronenberg is + indeed proudly situated; the form of the building, with its + spires and minarets, is nobly picturesque; the fabric is of + grey stone; and its innumerable windows, varied towers, and + other architectural ornaments, make it a striking and + beautiful contrast to the dull uniformity of the town. + </p> + <p> + Sir Robert Ker Porter, in his visit to this sacred spot, + collected a few interesting circumstances at the + fountain-head, relating to Shakspeare's northern hero, from + the very source whence our poet must have drawn the incidents + of his tragedy, viz. the "Annals of Denmark," written by Saxo + Grammaticus in the twelfth century. The work is in Latin, and + in our next number we intend inserting a short abstract of + Hamlet's story. It will be curious to compare the dialogues + of the original with their counterpart in the play. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + ON THE APPEARANCE OF AN AURORA BOREALIS, ON THE NIGHT OF THE + 25TH OF SEPTEMBER. + </h3> + <center> + BY A LADY IN HER THIRTEENTH YEAR. + </center> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + What may this mean? this ruddy blaze of light, + </p> + <p> + Breaking effulgent through the stilly night; + </p> + <p> + Darting its blood-red form along the sky, + </p> + <p> + Glowing with heaven's glorious majesty. + </p> + <p> + How with its phalaxy of rays unfurl'd, + </p> + <p> + It comes: its radiance circling all our mother world. + </p> + <p> + The pharos of the night; where gods might dance. + </p> + <p> + Heedless of mortals dull, unmeaning trance; + </p> + <p> + Where spirits in their mysteries might find, + </p> + <p> + A sail to float upon the yielding wind; + </p> + <p> + But see, it flies, its shadow; form outspread, + </p> + <p> + In fainting radiance o'er earth's startled bed, + </p> + <p> + Yet rests, like the death gleam of beauty's eye, + </p> + <p> + Or last rich tint of an autumnal sky. + </p> + <p> + And now in fleecy clouds the heav'ns appear. + </p> + <p> + Again it darts, dreamer, there's naught to fear; + </p> + <p> + Again, like a proud spirit of the sky, + </p> + <p> + Though conquer'd, breaking forth in majesty. + </p> + <p> + Britain, for thee this fearful warning sent, + </p> + <p> + Oh! mock not foolishly its dire portent; + </p> + <p> + For now that vice on all her malice wreaks, + </p> + <p> + Charms on the stage, and in the assembly speaks; + </p> + <p> + Now that with cheating fires she shameless dares, + </p> + <p> + Fortunate where virtue once defied her snares; + </p> + <p> + Again I say, for thee this warning sent, + </p> + <p> + Oh! mark it well, mock not its dire portent. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <p> + F.J.H. + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <h2> + THE SELECTOR,<br /> + AND<br /> + LITERARY NOTICES OF<br /> + <i>NEW WORKS</i>. + </h2> + <hr /> + <h3> + CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. + </h3> + <center> + (<i>By the author of Waverley</i>.) + </center> + <p> + [We have the pleasure of submitting to our readers, (almost + entire,) one of the stories of the forthcoming <i>Chronicles + of the Canongate</i>, it being the second narrative, and the + last in the first volume, and as well as the others, founded + on true incidents. The <i>Chronicles</i> are domestic tales; + but the <i>Two Drovers</i> should not be taken as a specimen + of the work. Slender as are its incidents, it proves that + "Richard (or Walter) is himself again," for in no vein of + writing is the author of Waverley more felicitous than in + delineating scenes of actual life, splendid as are his + narratives of the fairy scenes and halls of romance: and in + the prevailing taste for this description of writing, we + think the Chronicles of the Canongate bid fair to enjoy + popularity equal to any of Sir Walter's previous + productions.] + </p> + <h3> + <i>The Two Drovers</i>. + </h3> + <p> + It was the day after the Doune Fair when my story commences. + It had been a brisk market, several dealers had attended from + the northern and midland counties in England, and the English + money had flown so merrily about as to gladden the hearts of + the Highland farmers. Many large droves were about to set off + for England, under the protection of their owners, or of the + topsmen whom they employed in the tedious, laborious and + responsible office of driving the cattle for many hundred + miles, from the market where they had been purchased, to the + fields or farm-yards where they were to be fattened for the + shambles. + </p> + <p> + Of the number who left Doune in the morning, and with the + purpose we have described, not a <i>Glunamie</i> of them all + cocked his bonnet more briskly, or gartered his tartan hose + under knee over a pair of more promising <i>spiogs</i> + (legs), than did Robin Oig M'Combich, called familiarly Robin + Oig, that is Young, or the Lesser, Robin. Though small of + stature, as the epithet Oig implies, and not very strongly + limbed, he was as light and alert as one of the deer of his + mountains. He had an elasticity of step, which, in the course + of a long march, made many a stout fellow envy him; and the + manner in which he busked his plaid and adjusted his bonnet, + argued a consciousness that so smart a John Highlandman as + himself would not <span class="pagenum"><a id="page283" + name="page283"></a>[pg 283]</span> pass unnoticed among the + Lowland lasses. The ruddy cheek, red lips, and white teeth, + set off a countenance which had gained by exposure to the + weather, a healthful and hardy rather than a rugged hue. If + Robin Oig did not laugh, or even smile frequently, as indeed + is not the practice among his countrymen, his bright eyes + usually gleamed from under his bonnet with an expression of + cheerfulness ready to be turned into mirth. + </p> + <p> + The departure of Robin Oig was an incident in the little + town, in and near which he had many friends male and female. + He was a topping person in his way, transacted considerable + business on his own behalf, and was intrusted by the best + farmers in the Highlands, in preference to any other drover + in that district. He might have increased his business to any + extent had he condescended to manage it by deputy; but except + a lad or two, sister's sons of his own, Robin rejected the + idea of assistance, conscious, perhaps how much his + reputation depended upon his attending in person to the + practical discharge of his duty in every instance. He + remained, therefore, contented with the highest premium given + to persons of his description, and comforted himself with the + hopes that a few journeys to England might enable him to + conduct business on his own account, in a manner becoming his + birth. For Robin Oig's father, Lachlan M'Combich, (or, <i>son + of my friend</i>, his actual clan surname being M'Gregor,) + had been so called by the celebrated Rob Roy, because of the + particular friendship which had subsisted between the + grandsire of Robin and that renowned cateran. Some people + even say, that Robin Oig derived his Christian name from a + man, as renowned in the wilds of Lochlomond, as ever was his + namesake Robin Hood, in the precincts of merry Sherwood. "Of + such ancestry," as James Boswell says, "who would not be + proud?" Robin Oig was proud accordingly; but his frequent + visits to England and to the Lowlands had given him tact + enough to know that pretensions, which still gave him a + little right to distinction in his own lonely glen, might be + both obnoxious and ridiculous if preferred elsewhere. The + pride of birth, therefore, was like the miser's treasure, the + secret subject of his contemplation, but never exhibited to + strangers as a subject of boasting. + </p> + <p> + Many were the words of gratulation and goodluck which were + bestowed on Robin Oig. The judges commended his drove, + especially the best of them, which were Robin's own property. + Some thrust out their snuff-mulls for the parting + pinch—others tendered the <i>doch-an-dorrach</i>, or + parting cup. All cried—"Good-luck travel out with you + and come home with you.—Give you luck in the Saxon + market—brave notes in the <i>leabhar-dhu</i>, (black + pocket-book,) and plenty of English gold in the + <i>sporran</i> (pouch of goat-skin.)" + </p> + <p> + The bonny lasses made their adieus more modestly, and more + than one, it was said, would have given her best brooch to be + certain that it was upon her that his eye last rested as he + turned towards his road. + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig had just given the preliminary "<i>Hoo-hoo!</i>" to + urge forward the loiterers of the drove, when there was a cry + behind him. + </p> + <p> + "Stay, Robin—bide a blink. Here is Janet of + Tomahourich—auld Janet, your father's sister." + </p> + <p> + "Plague on her, for an auld Highland witch and spaewife," + said a farmer from the Carse of Stirling; "she'll cast some + of her cantrips on the cattle." + </p> + <p> + "She canna do that," said another sapient of the same + profession—"Robin Oig is no the lad to leave any of + them, without tying Saint Mungo's knot on their tails, and + that will put to her speed the best witch that ever flew over + Dimayet upon a broomstick." + </p> + <p> + It may not be indifferent to the reader to know, that the + Highland cattle are peculiarly liable to be <i>taken</i>, or + infected, by spells and witchcraft, which judicious people + guard against by knitting knots of peculiar complexity on the + tuft of hair which terminates the animal's tail. + </p> + <p> + But the old woman who was the object of the farmer's + suspicion, seemed only busied about the drover, without + paying any attention to the flock. Robin, on the contrary, + appeared rather impatient of her presence. + </p> + <p> + "What auld-world fancy," he said, "has brought you so early + from the ingle-side this morning, Muhme? I am sure I bid you + good even, and had your God-speed, last night." + </p> + <p> + "And left me more siller than the useless old woman will use + till you come back again, bird of my bosom," said the sibyl. + "But it is little I would care for the food that nourishes + me, or the fire that warms me, or for God's blessed sun + itself, if aught but weal should happen to the grandson of my + father. So let me walk the <i>deasil</i> round you, that you + may go safe out into the far foreign land, and come safe + home." + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig stopped, half embarrassed, half laughing, and + signing to those around that he only complied with the old + woman to soothe her humour. In the meantime, she traced + around him, with wavering + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page284" name="page284"></a>[pg + 284]</span> steps, the propitiation, which some have thought + has been derived from the Druidical mythology. It consists, + as is well known, in the person who makes the <i>deasil</i>, + walking three times round the person who is the object of the + ceremony, taking care to move according to the course of the + sun. At once, however, she stopped short, and exclaimed, in a + voice of alarm and horror, "Grandson of my father, there is + blood on your hand." "Hush, for God's sake, aunt," said Robin + Oig; "you will bring more trouble on yourself with this + Taishataragh (second sight) than you will be able to get out + of for many a day." + </p> + <p> + The old woman only repeated, with a ghastly look, "There is + blood on your hand, and it is English blood. The blood of the + Gael is richer and redder. Let us see—let us—" + </p> + <p> + Ere Robin Oig could prevent her, which, indeed, could only + have been by positive violence, so hasty and peremptory were + her proceedings, she had drawn from his side the dirk which + lodged in the folds of his plaid, and held it up, exclaiming, + although the weapon gleamed clear and bright in the sun, + "Blood, blood—Saxon blood again. Robin Oig M'Combich, + go not this day to England!" + </p> + <p> + "Prutt, trutt," answered Robin Oig, "that will never do + neither—it would be next thing to running the country. + For shame, Muhme—give me the dirk. You cannot tell by + the colour the difference betwixt the blood of a black + bullock and a white one, and you speak of knowing Saxon from + Gaelic blood. All men have their blood from Adam, Muhme. Give + me my skenedhu, and let me go on my road. I should have been + half way to Stirling brig by this time—Give me my dirk, + and let me go." + </p> + <p> + "Never will I give it to you," said the old + woman—"Never will I quit my hold on your plaid, unless + you promise me not to wear that unhappy weapon." + </p> + <p> + The women around him urged him also, saying few of his aunt's + words fell to the ground; and as the Lowland farmers + continued to look moodily on the scene, Robin Oig determined + to close it at any sacrifice. + </p> + <p> + "Well, then," said the young drover, giving the scabbard of + the weapon to Hugh Morrison, "you Lowlanders care nothing for + these freats. Keep my dirk for me. I cannot give it you, + because it was my father's; but your drove follows ours, and + I am content it should be in your keeping, not in mine. Will + this do, Muhme?" + </p> + <p> + "It must", said the old woman—"that is, if the + Lowlander is mad enough to carry the knife." + </p> + <p> + The strong westlandman laughed aloud. + </p> + <p> + "Good wife," said he, "I am Hugh Morrison from Glenae, come + of the Manly Morrisons of auld langsyne, that never took + short weapon against a man in their lives. And neither needed + they; they had their broadswords, and I have this bit supple + (showing a formidable cudgel)—for dirking ower the + board, I leave that to John Highlandman. Ye needna snort, + none of you Highlanders, and you in especial, Robin. I'll + keep the bit knife, if you are feared for the auld + spae-wife's tale, and give it back to you whenever you want + it." + </p> + <p> + Robin was not particularly pleased with some part of Hugh + Morrison's speech; but he had learned in his travels more + patience than belonged to his Highland constitution + originally, and he accepted the service of the descendant of + the Manly Morrisons, without finding fault with the rather + depreciating manner in which it was offered. + </p> + <p> + "If he had not had his morning in his head, and been but a + Dumfries-shire hog into the boot, he would have spoken more + like a gentleman. But you cannot have more of a sow but a + grumph. It's a shame my father's knife should ever slash a + haggis for the like of him." + </p> + <p> + Thus saying, (but saying it in Gaelic,) Robin drove on his + cattle, and waved farewell to all behind him. He was in the + greater haste, because he expected to join at Falkirk a + comrade and brother in profession, with whom he proposed to + travel in company. + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig's chosen friend was a young Englishman, Harry + Wakefield by name, well known at every northern market, and + in his way as much famed and honoured as our Highland driver + of bullocks. He was nearly six feet high, gallantly formed to + keep the rounds at Smithfield, or maintain the ring at a + wrestling-match; and although he might have been overmatched, + perhaps, among the regular professors of the Fancy, yet as a + chance customer, he was able to give a bellyful to any + amateur of the pugilistic art. Doncaster races saw him in his + glory, betting his guinea, and generally successfully; nor + was there a main fought in Yorkshire, the feeders being + persons of celebrity, at which he was not to be seen, if + business permitted. But though a <i>sprack</i> lad, and fond + of pleasure and its haunts, Harry Wakefield was steady, and + not the cautious Robin Oig M'Combich himself was more + attentive to the main chance. His holidays were holidays + indeed; but his days of work were dedicated + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page285" name="page285"></a>[pg + 285]</span> to steady and persevering labour. In countenance + and temper, Wakefield was the model of Old England's merry + yeomen, whose clothyard shafts, in so many hundred battles, + asserted her superiority over the nations, and whose good + sabres, in our own time, are her cheapest and most assured + defence. His mirth was readily excited; for, strong in limb + and constitution, and fortunate in circumstances, he was + disposed to be pleased with every thing about him; and such + difficulties as he might occasionally encounter, were, to a + man of his energy, rather matter of amusement than serious + annoyance. With all the merits of a sanguine temper, our + young English drover was not without his defects. He was + irascible, and sometimes to the verge of being quarrelsome; + and perhaps not the less inclined to bring his disputes to a + pugilistic decision, because he found few antagonists able to + stand up to him in the boxing-ring. + </p> + <p> + It is difficult to say how Henry Wakefield and Robin Oig + first became intimates; but it is certain a close + acquaintance had taken place betwixt them, although they had + apparently few common topics of conversation or of interest, + so soon as their talk ceased to be of bullocks. Robin Oig, + indeed, spoke the English language rather imperfectly upon + any other topics but stots and kyloes, and Harry Wakefield + could never bring his broad Yorkshire tongue to utter a + single word of Gaelic. It was in vain Robin spent a whole + morning, during a walk over Minch-Moor, in attempting to + teach his companion to utter, with true precision, the + shibboleth <i>Llhu</i>, which is the Gaelic for a calf. + </p> + <p> + The pair of friends had traversed with their usual cordiality + the grassy wilds of Liddesdale, and crossed the opposite part + of Cumberland, emphatically called the Waste. In these + solitary regions, the cattle under the charge of our drovers + subsisted themselves cheaply, by picking their food as they + went along the drove-road, or sometimes by the tempting + opportunity of a <i>start and owerloup</i>, or invasion of + the neighbouring pasture, where an occasion presented itself. + But now the scene changed before them; they were descending + towards a fertile and enclosed country, where no such + liberties could be taken with impunity, or without a previous + arrangement and bargain with the possessors of the ground. + This was more especially the case, as a great northern fair + was upon the eve of taking place, where both the Scotch and + English drover expected to dispose of a part of their cattle, + which it was desirable to produce in the market, rested and + in good order. Fields were therefore difficult to be + obtained, and only upon high terms. This necessity occasioned + a temporary separation betwixt the two friends, who went to + bargain, each as he could, for the separate accommodation of + his herd. Unhappily it chanced that both of them, unknown to + each other, thought of bargaining for the ground they wanted + on the property of a country gentleman of some fortune, whose + estate lay in the neighbourhood. The English drover applied + to the bailiff on the property, who was known to him. It + chanced that the Cumbrian Squire, who had entertained some + suspicions of his manager's honesty, was taking occasional + measures to ascertain how far they were well founded, and had + desired that any inquiries about his enclosures, with a view + to occupy them for a temporary purpose, should be referred to + himself. As, however, Mr. Ireby had gone the day before upon + a journey of some miles distance to the northward, the + bailiff chose to consider the check upon his full powers as + for the time removed, and concluded that he should best + consult his master's interest and perhaps his own, in making + an agreement with Harry Wakefield. Meanwhile, ignorant of + what his comrade was doing, Robin Oig, on his side, chanced + to be overtaken by a well-looked smart little man upon a + pony, most knowingly hogged and cropped, as was then the + fashion, the rider wearing tight leather breeches, and + long-necked bright spurs. This cavalier asked one or two + pertinent questions about markets and the price of stock. So + Donald, seeing him a well-judging, civil gentleman, took the + freedom to ask him whether he could let him know if there was + any grass-land to be let in that neighbourhood, for the + temporary accommodation of his drove. He could not have put + the question to more willing ears. The gentleman of the + buckskins was the proprietor, with whose bailiff Harry + Wakefield had dealt, or was in the act of dealing. + </p> + <p> + "Thou art in good luck, my canny Scot," said Mr. Ireby, "to + have spoken to me, for I see thy cattle have done their day's + work, and I have at my disposal the only field within three + miles that is to be let in these parts." + </p> + <p> + "The drove can pe gang two, three, four miles very pratty + weel indeed—" said the cautious Highlander; "put what + would his honour pe axing for the peasts pe the head, if she + was to tak the park for twa or three days?" + </p> + <p> + "We wont differ, Sawney, if you let me have six stots for + winterers, in the way of reason." + </p> + <p> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page286" name="page286"></a>[pg + 286]</span> "And which peasts wad your honour pe for having?" + </p> + <p> + "Why—let me see—the two black—the dun + one—yon doddy—him with the twisted horn—and + brockit—How much by the head?" + </p> + <p> + "Ah," said Robin, "your honour is a shudge—a real + shudge—I couldna have set off the pest six peasts + petter myself, me that ken them as if they were my pairns, + puir things." + </p> + <p> + "Well, how much per head, Sawney," continued Mr. Ireby. + </p> + <p> + "It was high markets at Doune and Falkirk," answered Robin. + </p> + <p> + And thus the conversation proceeded, until they had agreed on + the <i>prix juste</i> for the bullocks, the Squire throwing + in the temporary accommodation of the enclosure for the + cattle into the boot, and Robin making, as he thought, a very + good bargain, providing the grass was but tolerable. The + Squire walked his pony alongside of the drove, partly to show + him the way, and see him put into possession of the field, + and partly to learn the latest news of the northern markets. + </p> + <p> + They arrived at the field, and the pasture seemed excellent. + But what was their surprise when they saw the bailiff quietly + inducting the cattle of Harry Wakefield into the grassy + Goshen which had just been assigned to those of Robin Oig + M'Combich by the proprietor himself. Squire Ireby set spurs + to his horse, dashed up to his servant, and learning what had + passed between the parties, briefly informed the English + drover that his bailiff had let the ground without his + authority, and that he might seek grass for his cattle + wherever he would, since he was to get none there. At the + same time he rebuked his servant severely for having + transgressed his commands, and ordered him instantly to + assist in ejecting the hungry and weary cattle of Harry + Wakefield, which were just beginning to enjoy a meal of + unusual plenty, and to introduce those of his comrade, whom + the English drover now began to consider as a rival. + </p> + <p> + The feelings which arose in Wakefield's mind, would have + induced him to resist Mr. Ireby's decision; but every + Englishman has a tolerably accurate sense of law and justice, + and John Fleecebumpkin, the bailiff, having acknowledged that + he had exceeded his commission, Wakefield saw nothing else + for it than to collect his hungry and disappointed charge, + and drive them on to seek quarters elsewhere. Robin Oig saw + what had happened with regret, and hastened to offer to his + English friend to share with him the disputed possession. But + Wakefield's pride was severely hurt, and he answered + disdainfully, "Take it all man—take it all—never + make two bites of a cherry—thou canst talk over the + gentry, and blear a plain man's eye—Out upon you, + man—I would not kiss any man's dirty latchets for leave + to bake in his oven." + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig, sorry but not surprised at his comrade's + displeasure, hastened to entreat his friend to wait but an + hour till he had gone to the Squire's house to receive + payment for the cattle he had sold, and he would come back + and help him to drive the cattle into some convenient place + of rest, and explain to him the whole mistake they had both + of them fallen into. But the Englishman continued indignant: + "Thou hast been selling, hast thou? Ay, ay—thou is a + cunning lad for kenning the hours of bargaining. Go to the + devil with thyself, for I will ne'er see thy fause loon's + visage again—thou should be ashamed to look me in the + face." + </p> + <p> + "I am ashamed to look no man in the face," said Robin Oig, + something moved; "and, moreover, I will look you in the face + this blessed day, if you will bide at the Clachan down + yonder." + </p> + <p> + "Mayhap you had as well keep away," said his comrade; and + turning his back on his former friend, he collected his + unwilling associates, assisted by the bailiff, who took some + real and some affected interest in seeing Wakefield + accommodated. + </p> + <p> + After spending some time in negotiating with more than one of + the neighbouring farmers, who could not, or would not, afford + the accommodation desired, Henry Wakefield, at last, and in + his necessity, accomplished his point by means of the + landlord of the alehouse at which Robin Oig and he had agreed + to pass the night, when they first separated from each other. + Mine host was content to let him turn his cattle on a piece + of barren moor, at a price little less than the bailiff had + asked for the disputed enclosure; and the wretchedness of the + pasture, as well as the price paid for it, were set down as + exaggerations of the breach of faith and friendship of his + Scottish crony. This turn of Wakefield's passions was + encouraged by the bailiff (who had his own reasons for being + offended against poor Robin, as having been the unwitting + cause of his falling into disgrace with his master), as well + as by the innkeper, and two or three chance guests, who + soothed the drover in his resentment against his quondam + associate,—some from the ancient grudge against the + Scots, which, when it exists any where, is to be found + lurking in the Border counties, and some from the general + love of mischief, which characterizes + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page287" name="page287"></a>[pg + 287]</span> mankind in all ranks of life, to the honour of + Adam's children be it spoken. Good John Barleycorn also, who + always heightens and exaggerates the prevailing passions, be + they angry or kindly, was not wanting in his offices on this + occasion; and confusion to false friends and hard masters, + was pledged in more than one tankard. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, Mr. Ireby found some amusement in detaining + the northern drover at his ancient hall. He caused a cold + round of beef to be placed before the Scot in the butler's + pantry, together with a foaming tankard of home-brewed, and + took pleasure in seeing the hearty appetite with which these + unwonted edibles were discussed by Robin Oig M'Combich. The + squire himself lighting his pipe, compounded between his + patrician dignity and his love of agricultural gossip, by + walking up and down while he conversed with his guest. + </p> + <p> + "I passed another drove," said the squire, with one of your + countrymen behind them, they were something less beasts than + your drove—doddies most of them; a big man was with + them—none of your kilts though, but a decent pair of + breeches;—d'ye know who he may be?" + </p> + <p> + "Hout ay—that might, could, and would pe Hughie + Morrison—I didna think he could hae peen sae weel up. + He has made a day on us; put his Argyle-shires will have + wearied shanks. How far was he pehind?" + </p> + <p> + "I think about six or seven miles," answered the squire, "for + I passed them at the Christenbury Cragg, and I overtook you + at the Hollan Bush. If his beasts be leg-weary, he will be + may be selling bargains." + </p> + <p> + "Na, na, Hughie Morrison is no the man for pargains—ye + maun come to some Highland body like Robin Oig hersell for + the like of these;—put I maun be wishing you good + night, and twenty of them, let alane ane, and I maun down to + the Clachan to see if the lad Henry Waakfelt is out of his + humdudgeons yet." + </p> + <p> + The party at the alehouse were still in full talk, and the + treachery of Robin Oig still the theme of conversation, when + the supposed culprit entered the apartment. His arrival, as + usually happens in such a case, put an instant stop to the + discussion of which he had furnished the subject, and he was + received by the company assembled with that chilling silence, + which more than a thousand exclamations tells an intruder + that he is unwelcome. Surprised and offended, but not + appalled by the reception which he experienced, Robin entered + with an undaunted, and even a haughty air, attempted no + greeting as he saw he was received with none, and placed + himself by the side of the fire, a little apart from a table, + at which Harry Wakefield, the bailiff, and two or three other + persons, were seated. The ample Cumbrian kitchen would have + afforded plenty of room even for a larger separation. + </p> + <p> + Robin, thus seated, proceeded to light his pipe, and call for + a pint of twopenny. + </p> + <p> + "We have no twopenny ale," answered Ralph Heskett, the + landlord; but as thou find'st thy own tobacco, its like thou + may'st find thine own liquor too—it's the wont of thy + country, I wot." + </p> + <p> + "Shame, goodman," said the landlady, a blithe, bustling + housewife, hastening herself to suply the guest with + liquor—"Thou knowest well enow what the strange man + wants, and it's thy trade to be a civil man. Thou shouldest + know, that if the Scot likes a small pot, he pays a sure + penny." + </p> + <p> + Without taking any notice of this nuptial dialogue, the + Highlander took the flagon in his hand, and, addressing the + company generally, drank the interesting toast of "Good + markets," to the party assembled. + </p> + <p> + "The better that the wind blew fewer dealers from the north," + said one of the farmers, and fewer Highland runts to eat up + the English meadows." + </p> + <p> + "Soul of my pody, put you are wrang there, my friend," + answered Robin, with composure, "it is your fat Englishmen + that eat up our Scots cattle, puir things." + </p> + <p> + "I wish there was a summat to eat up their drovers," said + another; "a plain Englishman canna make bread within a + kenning of them." + </p> + <p> + "Or an honest servant keep his master's favour, but they will + come sliding in between him and the sunshine," said the + bailiff. + </p> + <p> + "If these pe jokes," said Robin Oig, with the same composure, + "there is ower mony jokes upon one man." + </p> + <p> + "It is no joke, but downright earnest," said the bailiff. + "Harkye, Mr. Robin Ogg, or whatever is your name, it's right + we should tell you that we are all of one opinion, and that + is, that you, Mr. Robin Ogg, have behaved to our friend, Mr. + Harry Wakefield here, like a raff and a blackguard." + </p> + <p> + "Nae doubt, nae doubt," answered Robin with great composure; + "and you are a set of very feeling judges, for whose prains + or pehaviour I wad not gae a pinch of sneeshing. If Mr. Harry + Waakfelt kens where he is wranged, he kens where he may be + righted." + </p> + <p> + "He speaks truth," said Wakefield, who had listened to what + passed, divided between the offence which he had taken + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page288" name="page288"></a>[pg + 288]</span> at Robin's late behaviour, and the revival of his + habitual acts of friendship. + </p> + <p> + He now rose and went towards Robin, who got up from his seat + as he approached, and held out his hand. + </p> + <p> + "That's right, Harry—go it—serve him out!" + resounded on all sides—"tip him the nailer—show + him the mill." + </p> + <p> + "Hold your peace, all of you, and be——," said + Wakefield; and then addressing his comrade, he took him by + the extended hand, with something alike of respect and + defiance. "Robin," he said, "thou hast used me ill enough + this day; but if you mean, like a frank fellow, to shake + hands, and take a tussel for love on the sod, why I'll forgie + thee, man, and we shall be better friends than ever." + </p> + <p> + "And would it not pe petter to be cooed friends without more + of the matter?" said Robin; "we will be much petter + friendships with our panes hale than broken." + </p> + <p> + Harry Wakefield dropped the hand of his friend, or rather + threw it from him. + </p> + <p> + "I did not think I had been keeping company for three years + with a coward." + </p> + <p> + "Coward belongs to none of my name," said Robin, whose eyes + began to kindle, but keeping the command of his temper. "It + was no coward's legs or hands, Harry Waakfelt, that drew you + out of the fords of Fried, when you was drifting ower the + place rock, and every eel in the river expected his share of + you." + </p> + <p> + "And that is true enough, too," said the Englishman, struck + by the appeal. + </p> + <p> + "Adzooks!" exclaimed the bailiff—"sure Harry Wakefield, + the nattiest lad at Whitson Tryste, Wooler Fair, Carlisle + Sands, or Stagshaw Bank, is not going to show white feather? + Ah, this comes of living so long with kilts and + bonnets—men forget the use of their daddies." + </p> + <p> + "I may teach you, Master Fleecebumpkin, that I have not lost + the use of mine," said Wakefield, and then went on. "This + will never do, Robin. We must have a turn-up, or we shall be + the talk of the country side. I'll be d——d if I + hurt thee—I'll put on the gloves gin thou like. Come, + stand forward like a man." + </p> + <p> + "To pe peaten like a dog," said Robin; "is there any reason + in that? If you think I have done you wrong, I'll go before + your shudge, though I neither know his law nor his language." + </p> + <p> + A general cry of "No, no—no law, no lawyer! a bellyful + and be friends," was echoed by the bystanders. + </p> + <p> + "But," continued Robin, "if I am to fight, I have no skill to + fight like a jackanapes, with hands and nails." + </p> + <p> + "How would you fight then?" said his antagonist; "though I am + thinking it would be hard to bring you to the scratch any + how." + </p> + <p> + "I would fight with proadswords, and sink point on the first + plood drawn——- like a gentlemans." + </p> + <p> + A loud shout of laughter followed the proposal, which indeed + had rather escaped from poor Robin's swelling heart, than + been the dictates of his sober judgment. + </p> + <p> + "Gentleman, quotha!" was echoed on all sides, with a shout of + unextinguishable laughter; "a very pretty gentleman, God + wot—Canst get two swords for the gentleman to fight + with, Ralph Heskett?" + </p> + <p> + "No, but I can send to the armoury at Carlisle, and lend them + two forks to be making shift with in the meantime." + </p> + <p> + "Tush, man," said another, "the bonny Scots come into the + world with the blue bonnet on their heads, and dirk and + pistol at their belt." + </p> + <p> + "Best send post," said Mr. Fleecebumpkin, "to the squire of + Corby Castle to come and stand second to the + <i>gentleman</i>." + </p> + <p> + In the midst of this torrent of general ridicule, the + Highlander instinctively griped beneath the folds of his + plaid. + </p> + <p> + "But it's better not," he said in his own language. "A + hundred curses on the swine-eaters, who know neither decency + nor civility!" + </p> + <p> + "Make room, the pack of you," he said, advancing to the door. + </p> + <p> + But his former friend interposed his sturdy bulk, and opposed + his leaving the house; and when Robin Oig attempted to make + his way by force, he hit him down on the floor, with as much + ease as a boy bowls down a nine-pin. + </p> + <p> + "A ring, a ring!" was now shouted, until the dark rafters, + and the hams that hung on them, trembled again, and the very + platters on the <i>bink</i> clattered against each other. + "Well done, Harry."—"Give it him home, + Harry."—"Take care of him now—he sees his own + blood!" + </p> + <p> + Such were the exclamations, while the Highlander, starting + from the ground, all his coldness and caution lost in frantic + rage, sprung at his antagonist with the fury, the activity, + and the vindictive purpose of an incensed tiger-cat. But when + could rage encounter science and temper? Robin Oig again went + down in the unequal contest; and as the blow was necessarily + a severe one, he lay motionless on the floor of the kitchen. + The landlady ran to offer some aid, but Mr. Fleecebumpkin + would not permit her to approach. + </p> + <p> + "Let him alone," he said, "he will come to within time, and + come up to the scratch again. He has not got half his broth + yet." + </p> + <p> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page289" name="page289"></a>[pg + 289]</span> "He has got all I mean to give him though," said + his antagonist, whose heart began to relent towards his old + associate; "and I would rather by half give the rest to + yourself, Mr. Fleecebumpkin, for you pretend to know a thing + or two, and Robin had not art enough even to peel before + setting to, but fought with his plaid dangling about + him.—Stand up, Robin, my man! all friends now; and let + me hear the man that will speak a word against you, or your + country, for your sake." + </p> + <p> + Robin Oig was still under the dominion of his passion, and + eager to renew the onset; but being withheld on the one side + by the peace-making Dame Heskett, and on the other, aware + that Wakefield no longer meant to renew the combat, his fury + sunk into gloomy sullenness. + </p> + <p> + "Come, come, never grudge so much at it, man," said the + brave-spirited Englishman, with the placability of his + country; "shake hands, and we will be better friends than + ever." + </p> + <p> + "Friends!" exclaimed Robin Oig with strong + emphasis—"friends!—Never. Look to yourself, Harry + Waakfelt." + </p> + <p> + "Then the curse of Cromwell on your proud Scots stomach, as + the man says in the play, and you may do your worst and be + d——; for one man can say nothing more to another + after a tussel, than that he is sorry for it." + </p> + <p> + On these terms the friends parted; Robin Oig drew out, in + silence, a piece of money, threw it on the table, and then + left the alehouse. But turning at the door, he shook his hand + at Wakefield, pointing with his fore-finger upwards, in a + manner which might imply either a threat or a caution. He + then disappeared in the moonlight. + </p> + <p> + (<i>To be concluded in our next</i>.) + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <h2> + ARCANA OF SCIENCE. + </h2> + <hr /> + <p> + <i>Sheppey</i>.—The isle of Sheppey is quickly giving + way to the sea, and if measures are not hereafter taken to + remedy this, possibly in a century or two hence its name may + be required to be obliterated from the map. Whole acres, with + houses upon them, have been carried away in a single storm, + while clay shallows, sprinkled with sand and gravel, which + stretch a full mile beyond the verge of the cliff, over which + the sea now sweeps, demonstrate the original area of the + island. From the blue clay of which these cliffs are composed + may be culled out specimens of all the fishes, fruits, and + trees, which abounded in Britain before the birth of Noah; + and the traveller may consequently handle fish which swam, + and fruit which grew, in the days of the antediluvians, all + now converted into sound stone, by the petrifying qualities + of the soil in which they are imbedded. Here are lobsters, + crabs, and nautili, presenting almost the same reality as + those we now see crawling and floating about; branches of + trees, too, in as perfect order as when lopped from their + parent stems; and trunks of them, twelve feet in length and + two or three diameter, fit, in all appearance, for the + operations of the saw, with great varieties of fruits, + resembling more those of tropical climates than of cold + latitudes like ours, one species having a large kernel, with + an adherent stalk, as complete as when newly plucked from the + tree that produced it. An interesting collection of these + relics of a former world may be seen at a watchmaker's on the + cliff, at Margate, including the most remarkable productions + of the isle of Sheppey. + </p> + <center> + <i>The Camelopard</i>. + </center> + <div class="figure" style="width: 50%; float: right;"> + <a href="images/280-2.png"><img width="100%" + src="images/280-2.png" alt="The Camelopard." /></a> + </div> + <p> + As a live camelopard has been sent to London and another to + Paris, the history and habits of these animals have excited + some interest. At a meeting of the Academy of Sciences in + Paris, on the 2nd of July last, M. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire + observed that naturalists were wrong in supposing that there + was only one species of the camelopard. The animal now in + Paris differs from the Cape of Good Hope species by several + essential anatomical characters, and he proposes to + distinguish it by the name of the <i>Giraffe of Sennaar</i>, + the country from which it comes. Some natives of Egypt having + come to see the one in Paris in the costume of the country, + the animal gave evident proofs of joy, and + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page290" name="page290"></a>[pg + 290]</span> loaded them with caresses. This fact is explained + by the circumstance that the Giraffe has an ardent affection + for its Arabian keeper, and that it naturally is delighted + with the sight of the turban and the costume of its keeper. + </p> + <p> + Some authors have proved the mildness and docility of the + camelopard, while others represent it as incapable of being + tamed. This difference is ascribed by M. Saint-Hilaire to + difference of education. Four or five years ago a male + Giraffe, extremely savage, was brought to Constantinople. The + keeper of the present Giraffe had also the charge of this + one, and he ascribes its savageness entirely to the manner in + which it was treated. At the same time M. Mongez read a + memoir on the testimony of ancient authors respecting the + Giraffe. Moses is the first author who speaks of it. As + Aristotle does not mention it, M. Mongez supposes that it was + unknown to the Greeks, and that it did not then exist in + Egypt, otherwise Aristotle, who travelled there, must have + known about it. In the year 708 of Rome, Julius Caesar + brought one to Europe, and the Roman emperors afterwards + exhibited them at Rome, either for the games in the circus, + or in their triumphs over the African princes. Albertus + Magnus, in his <i>Treatise de Animalibus</i>, is the first + modern author who speaks of the Giraffe. In 1486, one of the + Medici family possessed one at Florence, where it lived for a + considerable time. + </p> + <p> + In its native country the Giraffe browses on the twigs of + trees, preferring plants of the Mimosa genus; but it appears + that it can without inconvenience subsist on other vegetable + food. The one kept at Florence fed on the fruits of the + country, and chiefly on apples, which it begged from the + inhabitants of the first storeys of the houses. The one now + in Paris, from its having been accustomed in early life to + the food prepared by the Arabs for their camels, is fed on + mixed grains bruised, such as maize, barley, &c., and it + is furnished with milk for drink morning and evening. It + however willingly accepts fruits and the branches of the + acacia which are presented to it. It seizes the leaves with + its long rugous and narrow tongue by rolling it about them, + and seems annoyed when it is obliged to take any thing from + the ground, which it seems to do with difficulty. To + accomplish this it stretches first one, then the other of its + long fore-legs asunder, and it is not till after repeated + attempts that it is able to seize the objects with its lips + and tongue. + </p> + <p> + The pace of the Giraffe is an amble, though when pursued it + flies with extreme rapidity, but the small size of its lungs + prevents it from supporting a lengthened chase. The Giraffe + defends itself against the lion, its principal enemy, with + its fore feet, with which it strikes with such force as often + to repulse him. The specimen in the museum at Paris is about + two years and a half old. + </p> + <p> + The name <i>Camelo-pardalis</i> (camel-leopard) was given by + the Romans to this animal, from a fancied combination of the + characters of the camel and leopard; but its ancient + denomination was <i>Zurapha</i>, from which the name Giraffe + has been adopted.—<i>Brewster's Journal</i>. + </p> + <center> + <i>Sugar</i>. + </center> + <p> + About 3,700,000 cwt. of sugar are annually imported from the + West Indies. An advance in price, therefore, of one penny per + pound is a charge on the public of 1,726,600<i>l.</i> a year, + being more than one-third of the gross amount of the duty + levied at the Custom-house for the revenue. + </p> + <center> + <i>Silk</i>. + </center> + <p> + Lord Kingston has upwards of 30,000 mulberry-trees growing + upon one estate in Ireland, and has already sent raw silk + into the market. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + SINGULAR ASSASSINATION IN KINCARDINESHIRE. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <p> + The fate of one of the sheriffs of this county, in former + times, merits notice, especially as connected with a ruin in + the parish of Eccliscraig, formerly a place of great + strength, being erected on a perpendicular and peninsulated + rock, sixty feet above the sea, at the mouth of a small + rivulet. It was built in consequence of a murder committed in + the reign of James the First, and the circumstance deserves + to be recorded, as it affords a specimen of the barbarity of + the times. Melville, sheriff of Kincardineshire, had, by a + vigorous exercise of his authority, rendered himself so very + obnoxious to the barons of the county, that they had made + repeated complaints to the king. On the last of these + occasions the king, in a fit of impatience, happened to say + to Barclay, of Mathers, "I wish that sheriff were sodden and + supped in brue." Barclay instantly withdrew, and reported to + his neighbours the king's words, which they resolved + literally to fulfil. Accordingly, the conspirators invited + the unsuspecting Melville to a hunting party in the forest of + Garvock; where, having a fire kindled, and a cauldron of + water boiling on it, they rushed to the spot, stripped the + sheriff naked, and threw him headlong into the boiling + vessel: after which, on <span class="pagenum"><a id="page291" + name="page291"></a>[pg 291]</span> pretence of fulfilling the + royal mandate, each swallowed a spoonful of the broth. After + this cannibal feast, Barclay, to screen himself from the + vengeance of the king, built this fortress, which before the + invention of gunpowder must have been impregnable. Some of + the conspirators were afterwards pardoned. One of the pardons + is said to be still in existence; and the reason assigned for + granting it is, that the conspirator was within the tenth + degree of kin to Macduff, thane of Fife. + </p> + <p> + CHARLES STUART. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + USE OF HORSE-CHESTNUTS. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <p> + These nuts are much used in France and in Switzerland, in + whitening not only of hemp and flax, but also of silk and + wool. They contain a soapy juice, fit for washing of linens + and stuffs, for milling of caps and stockings, &c., and + for fulling of stuffs and cloths. + </p> + <p> + Twenty nuts are sufficient for five quarts of water. They + must be first peeled, which can be done by children, then + rasped or dried, and ground in a malt-mill, or any other + common steel mill. The water must be soft, either rain or + river water, for hard well water will by no means do. When + the nuts are rasped or ground, they must be steeped in the + water quite cold, which soon becomes frothy, (as it does with + soap,) and then turns white as milk. It must be well stirred + at first with a stick, and then, after standing some time to + settle, must be strained, or poured off quite clear. Linen + washed in this liquor, and afterwards rinsed in clear running + water, takes an agreeable light sky-blue colour. It takes + spots out of both linen and woollen, and never damages or + injures the cloth. Poultry will eat the meal of them, if it + is steeped in hot water, and mixed with an equal quantity of + pollard. The nuts also are eat by some cows, and without + hurting their milk; but they are excellent for horses whose + wind is injured. + </p> + <p> + A.B. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + A FETCH. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "I do believe," (as Byron cries,) + </p> + <p> + "There is a haunted spot, + </p> + <p> + And I can point out where it lies, + </p> + <p> + But cannot—where 'tis not. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Turn gentle people, lend an ear, + </p> + <p> + Unto my simple tale, + </p> + <p> + It will not draw a single tear + </p> + <p> + Nor make the heart bewail, + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + 'Tis of a ghost! O ladies fair! + </p> + <p> + Start not with sore affright, + </p> + <p> + It will not harm a single hair, + </p> + <p> + Nor 'make it stand upright." + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Attend, it was but yesternight, + </p> + <p> + I in my garret sat, + </p> + <p> + I saw—no, nothing yet I saw, + </p> + <p> + But something went pit-pat. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + So did my heart responsively, + </p> + <p> + Beat like a prison'd bird, + </p> + <p> + That's newly caught—but no reply + </p> + <p> + I made, to what I heard. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + It nearer came—'Angels,' I cried, + </p> + <p> + 'And Ministers of Grace defend.' + </p> + <p> + Yet nothing I as yet descried, + </p> + <p> + My hair stood all on end. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + My breath was short, I'm sure my eye + </p> + <p> + Was dim, so was the light, + </p> + <p> + I thought that I that hour should die, + </p> + <p> + With sad and sore affright. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + And then came o'er me—what came o'er? + </p> + <p> + Some spectre grim I'll bet, + </p> + <p> + O tell me!—why at every pore— + </p> + <p> + A very heavy sweat. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Poh, don't delay the wond'rous tale, + </p> + <p> + What follow'd? tell me that, + </p> + <p> + (I feel my heart and limbs too fail) + </p> + <p> + The same thing, pit-a-pat. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + And then there came before my eyes, + </p> + <p> + I pray thee 'list, O list,' + </p> + <p> + You fill my heart with dread surprise + </p> + <p> + What was it? why a mist. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + And then around my head there play'd + </p> + <p> + A flame, so wond'rous bright, + </p> + <p> + That made me more than all afraid— + </p> + <p> + My wig had caught the light. + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + And there came wand'ring by at last, + </p> + <p> + The same thing, pit-a-pat, + </p> + <p> + I found as 'cross the room it past, + </p> + <p> + The cat had got a rat. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <p> + MAY. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + TEA. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "The Muses' friend, <i>tea</i>, does our fancy aid, + </p> + <p> + Repress those vapours which the head invade." + </p> + <p> + WALLER. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <p> + The tea-tree loves to grow in valleys, at the foot of + mountains, and upon the banks of rivers, where it enjoys a + southern exposure to the sun, though it endures considerable + variations of heat and cold, as it flourishes in the northern + clime of Peking, as well as about Canton; and it is observed + that the degree of cold at Peking is as severe in winter as + in some parts of Europe. However, the best tea grows in a + mild, temperate climate, the country about Nanking producing + better tea than either Peking or Canton, betwixt which places + it is situated. The root resembles that of the peach-tree; + the leaves are green, longish at the point, and narrow, an + inch and half long, and jagged all round. The flower is much + like that of the wild rose, but smaller. The fruit is of + different forms, sometimes round, + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page292" name="page292"></a>[pg + 292]</span> sometimes long, sometimes triangular, and of the + ordinary size of a bean, containing two or three seeds, of a + mouse colour, including each a kernel. These are the seeds by + which the plant is propagated, a number, from six to twelve, + or fifteen, being promiscuously put into one hole, four or + five inches deep, at certain distances from each other. The + seeds vegetate without any other care, though the more + industrious annually remove the weeds and manure the land. + The leaves which succeed are not fit to be plucked before the + third year's growth, at which period they are plentiful, and + in their prime. In about seven years the shrub rises to a + man's height, and as it then bears few leaves, and grows + slowly, it is cut down to the stem, which occasions an + exuberance of fresh shoots and leaves the succeeding summer. + In Japan, the tea-tree is cultivated round the borders of the + fields, without regard to soil, but as the Chinese export + great quantities of tea, they plant whole fields with it. The + tea-trees that yield often the finest leaves, grow on the + steep declivities of hills, where it is dangerous and in some + cases impracticable to collect them. The Chinese are said to + vanquish this difficulty by a singular contrivance. The large + monkeys which inhabit these cliffs are irritated, and in + revenge they break off the branches and throw them down, so + that the leaves are thus obtained. The leaves should be dried + as soon as possible after they are gathered. The Chinese are + always taking tea, especially at meals; it is the chief treat + with which they regale their friends, but they use it without + the addition of sugar and milk. Tea was first introduced into + Europe by the Dutch East India Company very early in the + seventeenth century, and a great quantity of it was brought + over from Holland by Lord Arlington and Lord Ossory about the + year 1666, at which time it sold for 60s. per pound. Tea + exhilarates without intoxication, and its enlivening + qualities are equally felt by the sedentary student and the + active labourer. Dr. Johnson dearly loved tea, and drank + great quantities of this elegant and popular beverage, and so + does P.T.W. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + PORSON. + </h3> + <p> + The late professor having once exasperated a disputant by the + dryness of his sarcasm, the petulant opponent thus addressed + him:—"Mr. Porson, I beg leave to tell you, sir, that my + opinion of you is perfectly contemptible." Person replied, "I + never knew an opinion of yours, sir, which was not + contemptible." + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + THE DRAMA AND ITS PROFESSORS. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <p> + It is remarkable with what difference actors were treated + among the ancients. At Athens, they were held in such esteem, + as to be sometimes appointed to discharge embassies and other + negotiations; whereas, at Rome, if a citizen became an actor, + he thereby forfeited his freedom. Among the moderns, actors + are best treated in England; the French having much the same + opinion of them that the Romans had; for though an actor of + talent, in Paris, is more regarded than here, he nevertheless + is deeply degraded. He may die amid applauses on the stage, + but at his natural death, he must pass to his grave, without + a prayer or <i>de profundis</i>, unless a minister of + religion receives his last sigh. + </p> + <p> + Cromwell and his Puritans had a holy horror of actors. They + pronounced them Sons of Belial! and professors of + abomination. During the whole reign of the Republican + Parliament, and Protectorate, the theatres of that day were + closed, or, if opened by stealth, were subject to the visits + of the emissaries of "Praise God Barebones," "Fight the Good + Fight," and their crew. The actors were driven off the stage + by soldiers, and the cant word of that period is still + recorded, "Enter red coat, exit hat and cloak." William + Prynne was celebrated for his writings against the immorality + of the stage, and the furious invectives of Jeremy Collier, + are still extant; his pen was roused by Dryden's <i>Spanish + Friar</i>, and Congreve's witty, but licentious comedies. + Collier inveighed without mercy, but he certainly did much to + reform the stage. Our Evangelicals and Methodists denounce + the histrionic art to this day, with more than the zeal of + the Church of Rome. But a follower of Wesley or Whitfield + would not enter the den of abomination. Here, however, we + take care all our comedies shall be purified, and our + tragedies free, even from an oath; both are subject to the + censor's unsparing pen, and must be subsequently licensed by + the Lord Chamberlain. + </p> + <p> + The actors in England, have, it is true, only become + respectable within the last half century, and though they are + termed his majesty's servants, yet an <i>unrepealed</i> + statute denounces them as vagabonds. As a body, numerous in + itself, they are as free from crime as any other associated + body or profession of men, and yet do they "his majesty's + servants" continue to lay under the stigma which the above + unrepealed act fixes upon them. + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page293" name="page293"></a>[pg + 293]</span> This is perfectly anomalous, and it was + spiritedly denounced by Sir Walter Scott, when on a recent + and interesting occasion he nobly and manfully declared "Its + professors had been stigmatized; and laws had been passed + against them less dishonourable to them than to the statesman + by whom they were proposed, and to the legislators by whom + they were passed." To repeal, therefore, an act nugatory in + itself, would not add to the reputation of the profession, + nor give a license to further abuse; but it would be an act + of justice, and remove a prejudice unjustly attached to the + professors of a difficult art. + </p> + <p> + The critical pen of Mrs. Inchbald justly remarks, "To the + honour of a profession long held in contempt by the + wise—and still contemned by the weak—Shakspeare, + the pride of Britain, was a player." To the illustrious bard, + the modern drama is indebted for its excellence. His writings + will remain for ever the grandest monument of a genius which + opened to him the whole heart of man, all the mines of fancy, + all the stores of nature, and gave him power beyond all other + writers, to move, astonish, and delight mankind. In the + drama, the most interesting emotions are excited; the + dangerous passions of hate, envy, avarice, and pride, with + all their innumerable train of attendant vices, are detected + and exposed. Love, friendship, gratitude, and all those + active and generous virtues which warm the heart and exalt + the mind, are held up as objects of emulation. And what can + be a more effectual method of softening the ferocity, and + improving the minds of the inconsiderate? The heart is melted + by the scene, and ready to receive an impression—either + to warn the innocent, or to appal the guilty; and numbers of + those who have neither abilities nor time for deriving + advantage from reading, are powerfully impressed through the + medium of the eyes and ears, with those important truths + which while they illuminate the understanding, correct the + heart. The moral laws of the drama are said to have an effect + next after those conveyed from the pulpit, or promulgated in + courts of justice. Mr. Burke, indeed, has gone so far as to + observe that "the theatre is a better school of moral + sentiment than churches." The drama, therefore, has a right + to find a place; and to its professors are we indebted for + what may justly be considered one of the highest of all + intellectual gratifications. + </p> + <p> + F.K.Y. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + MEMORY. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>For the Mirror</i>.) + </p> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + How many a mortal bears a heavy chain, + </p> + <p> + Of bitter sorrow, 'neath thy iron reign, + </p> + <p> + And many a one, whose harder fate has given, + </p> + <p> + Some early woes, by thee to madness driven, + </p> + <p> + Sees the sad vision of some bygone day, + </p> + <p> + And thinks on what he hath seen with dismay: + </p> + <p> + So some lone murderer, wanders o'er the world + </p> + <p> + By thy dread arm to desperation hurl'd; + </p> + <p> + In vain he prays, or bends the lowly knee, + </p> + <p> + With fiendlike power, thou dragg'st him back with thee, + </p> + <p> + Point'st to some scene of early guilt and woe, + </p> + <p> + Opening the source from whence his sorrows flow. + </p> + <p> + As round the bark which feels the tempest's shock, + </p> + <p> + The lightning plays, and shows the fatal rock, + </p> + <p> + So memory brings our sorrows all to light + </p> + <p> + With vivid truth presents them to the sight; + </p> + <p> + Pursues the wretch who else some joy might find, + </p> + <p> + To fix her seat of empire in his mind. + </p> + <p> + As desert lakes in sad illusion fly, + </p> + <p> + Before the weary traveller's cheated eye + </p> + <p> + So memory shows, those hopes we still would cherish. + </p> + <p> + Pleased but to fade, allured us but to perish. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <p> + M.B.S. + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <h2> + SPIRIT OF THE PUBLIC JOURNALS. + </h2> + <hr /> + <h3> + ON COALHEAVERS. + </h3> + <p> + Although in this age of all but universal hypocrisy and + make-believe, every man has at least two fashions of one + countenance, it is in dress principally that most men are + most unlike themselves. But the coalheaver always sticks + close to the attire of his station; he alone wears the + consistent and befitting garb of his forefathers; he alone + has not discarded "the napless vesture of humility," to + follow the always expensive, and often absurd fashions of his + superiors. All ungalled of him is each courtier's heel or + great man's kibe. Yet, is not even his every-day clothing + unseemly, or his aspect unprepossessing. He casts as broad + and proper a shadow in the sun as any other man. Black he is, + indeed, but comely, like the daughters of Jerusalem.—To + begin with the hat which he has honoured with a + preference—what are your operas or your fire-shovels + beside it? they must instantly (on a fair comparison) sink + many degrees below zero in the scale of contempt. In a word, + I would make bold to assert that it unites in perfection the + two grand requisites of a head covering, beauty and comfort. + Gentlemen may smile at this if they will, and take exception + to my taste; but, I ask, does the modern round hat, whatever + the insignificant <span class="pagenum"><a id="page294" + name="page294"></a>[pg 294]</span> variations of its form, + possess either quality? No, not a jot of it. One would think, + by our pertinacious adherence to the head-ach giving, + circular conformation, that we wished to show our anger at + the Almighty for not shaping our caputs like cylinders. In + fine, though the parson's and the quaker's hat has each its + several merits, commend me to the fan-tailed <i>shallow</i>. + The flap part attached to the cap seems, at first sight, as + to use, supernecessary, although so ornamental withal. It no + doubt (as its name, indeed indicates) had its origin in + gallantry, and was invented in the age of fans, for the + purpose of cooling their mistresses' bosoms, heated—as + they would necessarily be—at fair time, by their + gravel-grinding walks, under a fervid sun, to the elegant + revels of West-end, of Greenwich, or of Tothill-fields. + Breeches, rejected by common consent of young and old alike, + cling to the legs of the coalheaver with an abiding fondness, + as to the last place of refuge; and, on gala-days, a dandy + might die of envy to mark the splendour of those nether + integuments—which he has not soul enough to dare to + wear—of brilliant eye-arresting blue, or glowing + scarlet plush, glittering in the sun's rays, giving and + taking glory! But enough of the dress of these select + "true-born Englishmen"—for right glad I am to state + that there are but <i>two</i> Scotch coalheavers on the whole + river, and <i>no</i> Irish. I beg leave to return to the more + important consideration of their manners. Most people you + meet in your walks in the common thoroughfare of London, + glide, shuffle, or crawl onward, as if they conscientiously + thought they had no manner of right to tread the earth but on + sufferance. Not so our coalheaver. Mark how erect <i>he</i> + walks! how firm a keel he presents to the vainly breasting + human tide that comes rolling on with a show of opposition to + his onward course! It is he, and he only, who preserves, in + his gait and in his air, the self-sustained and conscious + dignity of the first-created man. Surrounded by an inferior + creation, he gives the wall to none. That pliancy of temper, + which is wont to make itself known by the waiving a point or + renouncing a principle for others' advantage, in him has no + place; he either knows it not, or else considers it a poor, + mean-spirited, creeping baseness, altogether unworthy of his + imitation, and best befitted with ineffable contempt. He + neither dreads the contact of the baker—the Scylla of + the metropolitan peripatetic, nor yet shuns the dire + collision of the chimney-sweep—his Charybdis. Try to + pass him as he walks leisurely on, making the solid earth + ring with his bold tread, and you will experience more + difficulties in the attempt than did that famous admiral, + Bartholomew Diaz, when he first doubled the Cape of Storms. + Or let us suppose, that haply you allow your frail carcass to + go full drive against his sturdiness, when lo!—in + beautiful illustration of those doctrines in projectiles, + that relate to the concussion of moving bodies—you fly + off at an angle "right slick" into the middle of the + carriage-way; whence a question of some interest presently + arises, whether you will please to be run over by a short or + a long stage.—But to return. Who hesitates to make way + for a coalheaver? As for their drays—as + <i>consecutive</i> a species of vehicles as a body can be + stopped by—every one knows they make way for + themselves. + </p> + <p> + I one Sunday met a party of my favourites in St. Paul's + cathedral. They seemed to view with becoming respect and even + awe that splendid place; and they listened to and observed, + with apparent profound attention, the cathedral service. Yet + I must confess my favourable opinion of their grave looks was + rather staggered by overhearing afterwards one of them say to + his neighbour, casting a look all round the while, "My eyes, + Tom, what lots o' <i>coals</i> this here place would hold." + Perhaps the observation was meant in honour. + </p> + <p> + <i>Monthly Magazine</i>. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + TRAVELLING FARE. + </h3> + <p> + If you shut yourself up for some fifty hours or so in a + mail-coach, that keeps wheeling along at the rate of ten + miles an hour, and changes horses in half a minute, + certainly, for obvious reasons, the less you eat and drink + the better; and perhaps a few hundred daily drops of + laudanum, or equivalent grains of opium, would be advisable, + so that the transit from London to Edinburgh might be + performed in a phantasma. But a free agent ought to live well + on his travels—some degrees better, without doubt, than + when at home. People seldom live very well at home. There is + always something requiring to be eaten up, that it may not be + lost, which destroys the soothing and satisfactory symmetry + of an unexceptionable dinner. We have detected the same duck + through many unprincipled disguises, playing a different part + in the farce of domestic economy, with a versatility hardly + to have been expected in one of the most generally despised + of the web-footed tribe. When travelling at one's own sweet + will, one feeds at a different inn every meal; and, except + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page295" name="page295"></a>[pg + 295]</span> when the coincidence of circumstances is against + you, there is an agreeable variety both in the natural and + artificial disposition of the dishes. + </p> + <p> + <i>Blackwood's Magazine</i>. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + ENGLISH FRUITS. + </h3> + <p> + (<i>Continued from page 231</i>.) + </p> + <p> + <i>The Currant</i>—The native place of this useful + fruit is not exactly ascertained; nearly allied to the + gooseberry, it receives the same treatment, shows the same + changes, and may be further improved by the same means; a + cross between the white Dutch and red, might be a valuable + mule. It is probable the black also may be induced to sport + from that steady character it has hitherto maintained; there + are but few domesticated plants but which (like animals) + depart, in some way or other, from their native caste. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Apple</i>.—It is difficult to find adequate + terms to set forth the value of the advantages which have + accrued to mankind from the cultivation of this deservedly + high-prized fruit. One circumstance in the history of the + apple must not pass unnoticed here, viz., the deterioration + of the old sorts, which regaled and were the boast of our + forefathers a century ago. It is the opinion of an eminent + orchardist that as the apple is an artificial production, + and, as such, has its stages of youth, maturity, and old age, + it cannot, in its period of decrepitude, be by any means + renovated to its pristine state, either by pruning or cutting + down, changing its place, or by transferring its parts to + young and vigorous stocks; and that, in whatever station it + may be placed, it carries with it the decay and diseases of + its parent. This is the most rational account which has been + given of this indisputable fact; and though its accuracy has + been called in question by some naturalists, the general + failure in our old orchards, and the difficulties in forming + new ones with the old favourite sorts, is a decisive proof + that such deterioration exists. It is therefore the chief + object of the modern pomologist, to obtain from seeds of the + best <i>wildings</i> new varieties wherewith to form new and + profitable orchards; and which may be expected to continue in + health and fertility, as the old sorts have done, for the + next century. + </p> + <p> + The foregoing are the fruits found wild in our climate; the + difference in their aboriginal and cultivated state has been + pointed out; we shall now give short descriptions of foreign + fruits, which have been partly naturalized, the management of + which forms so considerable a share of the gardener's art and + attention. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Apricot</i>.—It is supposed that this fruit is a + native of Africa: from thence it appears to have come through + Persia and Greece to us, with the name "a praecox," + significant of its earliness. There are several varieties + which have been obtained by means similar to those already + mentioned; and there is room for further exertion in + endeavouring to improve the size of the fruit, or any other + desirable quality. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Peach</i>—This delicate and excellent fruit is a + striking instance of what judicious cultivation may produce. + The common almond has always been considered the original + stock of this monument of skill and assiduity. The estimation + in which it is held, and the care and expense incurred in its + cultivation both in forcing-houses and in the open air, is + proof of its superiority: and no fruit repays the labour of + the attendant, or the expense of the owner, more bountifully + than this. Seedlings of this fruit are, if we can credit what + is written and said of it, less inclined to depart from the + properties or qualities of the parent, than most others of + our improved fruits. In America, they are in common and + general cultivation. No trouble is bestowed in either + layering (which is practicable), or budding them. Sowing a + quantity of the stones, they are sure to pick out from among + the seedlings as many good sorts as they may wish to + cultivate: few of these may be exactly like the parent; some + may be superior, but all are passable, especially if the + young trees have been selected by a skilful hand; and this he + is enabled to do, merely from the appearance of the wood and + leaves. Many new sorts have lately been obtained and brought + into notice in this country; and this facility of the peach + to multiply its varieties will no doubt be taken advantage of + by propagators. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Nectarine</i>.—This, it is allowed by all + writers, is certainly a child of cultivation: there being no + wild plant from which it could be derived, except the almond. + It is therefore a collateral branch with, or rather of, the + peach: of this no better proof can be given, than the + circumstance that nectarines are sometimes produced by a + peach tree. + </p> + <p> + <i>The Orange</i>.—This endless family of fruits it is + probable had the small but useful wild lime for its + progenitor. The monstrous shaddock, citrons of all shapes and + sizes, oranges and lemons, are all varieties, obtained in the + course of long cultivation. + </p> + <p> + (<i>To be concluded in our next</i>.) + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <p> + <span class="pagenum"><a id="page296" name="page296"></a>[pg + 296]</span> + </p> + <h2> + THE GATHERER. + </h2> + <p> + "I am but a Gatherer and disposer of other men's + stuff."—<i>Wotton</i>. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + TO CHLOE, AT SIXTY. + </h3> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Those teeth, as white as orient pearls + </p> + <p> + Stolen from th' Indian deep, + </p> + <p> + Those locks, whose light and auburn curls + </p> + <p> + Soft on thy shoulders sleep, + </p> + <p> + Expose a woman to the sight + </p> + <p> + None but old friends can know; + </p> + <p> + Thy locks were grey, thy teeth not white, + </p> + <p> + Some twenty years ago. + </p> + </div> + </div> + <hr /> + <p> + Wilkes used to say, that a gentleman did not always require a + footman to carry a parcel, for there were three things which + he might always carry openly in his hand,—a book, a + paper of snuff, and a string of fish. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + HEREDITARY TALENT IN ACTORS. + </h3> + <p> + "Families are chequered as in brains, so in + bulk."—FULLER. + </p> + <p> + The children of many obscure performers have become eminent: + but there are very few instances in which the descendant of a + considerable actor or actress has been distinguished. To take + instances within recent recollection, or of the present day, + for example—Mr. Elliston has a son upon the stage: with + none of the striking talent of the father. Mr. Henry Siddons, + the son of Mrs. Siddons, was a very bad actor indeed. Lewis + had two sons upon the stage, neither of them of any value. + Mr. Dowton has two sons (or had), in the same situation. And + Mrs. Glover's two daughters will never rise above mediocrity. + On the other hand, Mr. Macready and Mr. Wallack, are both + sons of very low actors; and the late Mr. John Bannister and + Mr. Tokely were similarly descended. Almost the only modern + instance of the immediate descendant of a valuable performer + turning out well, was in the case of Mrs. Jordan's daughter, + Mrs. Alsop; who was very nearly as good an actress as her + mother. We doubt, too, if there is an instance on record of a + very young man being a considerable actor. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + PRISON TORTURE. + </h3> + <p> + A horrible instance of human vengeance occurred a short time + since, at Minden, in Westphalia. The object was a person who, + from conscientious motives, peculiar to the religious body of + which he was a member, had refused to serve in the militia. + He was placed in a cell, the floor and sides of which were + closely studded with projecting spikes, or pieces of + sharpened iron resembling the blades of knives. The + individual remained in this state for twenty-four hours, and + the punishment was repeated at three distinct intervals. It + is considered a rare occurrence for a person to survive the + second infliction of this species of cruelty. In this + instance, however, the sufferer did not perish—<i>From + the last Report of the Prison Discipline Society</i>. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE. + </h3> + <p> + As her Grace was one day rambling in the neighbourhood of + Chiswick, she was overtaken by a violent storm, and + accordingly took shelter, in a cottage where she happened to + be unknown. Among other topics she introduced with her usual + affability, she asked the poor woman if she knew the Duchess + of Devonshire? "Know her, (answered the woman,) + <i>everybody</i> has cause to know her here; never was there + a better lady born." "I am afraid you are mistaken, (said her + Grace); from what I understand of her, she is no better than + she should be." "I am sure <i>you</i> are no better than you + should be, (returned the poor woman,) to find fault with the + Duchess; but you'll never be worthy to wipe her shoes." "Well + then, (rejoined her Grace,) I must be beholden to <i>you</i>, + as they are at present very dirty." The good woman perceiving + the awkward mistake, ran to perform the office with great + humility, and received an ample reward. + </p> + <hr /> + <h3> + KITCHEN CONUNDRUM. + </h3> + <div class="poem"> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "Come Thomas," says Kitty, "pray make us a pun,— + </p> + <p> + You're goodnatured and never refuse;" + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "Ask coachee," says Tom, "<i>he's</i> the fellow for + Fun,— + </p> + <p> + For he knows the way to <i>a-mews</i>." + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + Says coachee, "Why Thomas you puzzle my brains, + </p> + <p> + For you never can bridle your wit;" + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"> + <p> + "But how comes it, that I, tho' exposed to the + <i>reins</i> + </p> + <p> + Ev'ry day, never <i>suffer a bit</i>?" + </p> + </div> + <div class="stanza"></div> + </div> + <hr /> + <h3> + DEAR TIMES. + </h3> + <p> + After the union with Ireland, when the Irish members had + taken their seats, one of them, in the heat of his maiden + speech, blustered out, "Now, dare Mr. Speaker," which, of + course, set the house in an immoderate fit of laughter. When + the tumult had subsided, Sheridan observed, "that the + honourable gentleman was perfectly in order, since, thanks to + the ministry, everything at that time was immoderately + <i>dear</i>." + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + <p> + <i>Printed and published by J. LIMBIRD. 143. Strand, (near + Somerset House,) and sold by all Newsmen and Booksellers</i>. + </p> + <hr class="full" /> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, +and Instruction., by Various + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MIRROR OF LITERATURE, NO. 280 *** + +***** This file should be named 11369-h.htm or 11369-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/1/3/6/11369/ + +Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Keith M. 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For +example an eBook of filename 10234 would be found at: + + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/0/2/3/10234 + +or filename 24689 would be found at: + https://www.gutenberg.org/2/4/6/8/24689 + +An alternative method of locating eBooks: + https://www.gutenberg.org/GUTINDEX.ALL + + + + +</pre> + + </body> +</html> diff --git a/old/11369-h/images/280-1.png b/old/11369-h/images/280-1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..57e9d88 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/11369-h/images/280-1.png diff --git a/old/11369-h/images/280-2.png b/old/11369-h/images/280-2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..1602277 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/11369-h/images/280-2.png diff --git a/old/11369.txt b/old/11369.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..73b0bb6 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/11369.txt @@ -0,0 +1,1965 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and +Instruction., by Various + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and Instruction. + Volume X, No. 280, Saturday, October 27, 1827. + +Author: Various + +Release Date: February 29, 2004 [EBook #11369] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: US-ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MIRROR OF LITERATURE, NO. 280 *** + + + + +Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Keith M. Eckrich, David Garcia and the +Online Distributed Proofreading Team. + + + + + +THE MIRROR OF LITERATURE, AMUSEMENT, AND INSTRUCTION. + +VOL. X, NO. 280.] SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, 1827. [PRICE 2d. + + + + + +Illustrations of Shakspeare. + + * * * * * + +NO. XIII. ELSINEUR, FROM HAMLET'S GARDEN. + + * * * * * + + +[Illustration: ELSINEUR, FROM HAMLET'S GARDEN.] + + +We augur that the above will prove one of the most interesting of our +Shakspearian Illustrations, inasmuch as the garden where Hamlet was +wont to revel in the fitful dreams of his philosophic melancholy, is +holy ground. "The lapse of ages and the fables of the poet," says a +delighted visiter, "were all lost in the reality of Shakspeare's +painting: the moment of his scene seemed present with me; and eager to +traverse every part of this consecrated ground, I had already followed +Hamlet every where; I had measured the deep shadows of the platform, +encountered the grey ghost of the Royal Dane, had killed Polonius in +the queen's closet, and drowned poor Ophelia in the willowed stream. +The modern aspect of Elsineur is, however, far from inviting, and not +a single vestige presents itself that bears the smallest trace of this +town ever having been hallowed by the mausoleum of an Ophelia, or +proudly decorated with the stately walls of a royal palace." + +About a mile from the town is a place that bears the name of Hamlet's +garden. Here is no relic of ancient interest, excepting the tradition, +which affirms that to be the spot where once stood the Danish palace, +and where was enacted that tragedy, which has been so gloriously +immortalized by the genius of our great dramatic bard. + +The present edifice is erected on the brow of a gently rising hill, +the summit of which is gained by means of a winding walk cut through a +small shrubbery. In the surrounding prospect, the town of Elsineur, on +the plain beneath, presents itself ill-built, red, and without any +public building, or spire, to vary its sameness. Far to the left of +the city stands the castle of Kronenberg, a bold and fine feature; +the waves of the Cattegut roll at its feet; and are bounded on the +opposite side by the Swedish coast. When the annexed sketch was made, +400 sail of merchants' ships were lying there at anchor, which added +greatly to the interest of the picture. The small village on the +distant shore is Elsenberg. The forest of Kronenberg is indeed proudly +situated; the form of the building, with its spires and minarets, is +nobly picturesque; the fabric is of grey stone; and its innumerable +windows, varied towers, and other architectural ornaments, make it a +striking and beautiful contrast to the dull uniformity of the town. + +Sir Robert Ker Porter, in his visit to this sacred spot, collected +a few interesting circumstances at the fountain-head, relating to +Shakspeare's northern hero, from the very source whence our poet must +have drawn the incidents of his tragedy, viz. the "Annals of Denmark," +written by Saxo Grammaticus in the twelfth century. The work is in +Latin, and in our next number we intend inserting a short abstract of +Hamlet's story. It will be curious to compare the dialogues of the +original with their counterpart in the play. + + + * * * * * + + +ON THE APPEARANCE OF AN AURORA BOREALIS, ON THE NIGHT OF THE 25TH OF +SEPTEMBER. + +BY A LADY IN HER THIRTEENTH YEAR. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + + What may this mean? this ruddy blaze of light, + Breaking effulgent through the stilly night; + Darting its blood-red form along the sky, + Glowing with heaven's glorious majesty. + How with its phalaxy of rays unfurl'd, + It comes: its radiance circling all our mother world. + The pharos of the night; where gods might dance. + Heedless of mortals dull, unmeaning trance; + Where spirits in their mysteries might find, + A sail to float upon the yielding wind; + But see, it flies, its shadow; form outspread, + In fainting radiance o'er earth's startled bed, + Yet rests, like the death gleam of beauty's eye, + Or last rich tint of an autumnal sky. + And now in fleecy clouds the heav'ns appear. + Again it darts, dreamer, there's naught to fear; + Again, like a proud spirit of the sky, + Though conquer'd, breaking forth in majesty. + Britain, for thee this fearful warning sent, + Oh! mock not foolishly its dire portent; + For now that vice on all her malice wreaks, + Charms on the stage, and in the assembly speaks; + Now that with cheating fires she shameless dares, + Fortunate where virtue once defied her snares; + Again I say, for thee this warning sent, + Oh! mark it well, mock not its dire portent. + +F.J.H. + + * * * * * + + + + +THE SELECTOR, + +AND + +LITERARY NOTICES OF _NEW WORKS_. + + + * * * * * + + +CHRONICLES OF THE CANONGATE. + +(_By the author of Waverley_.) + + +[We have the pleasure of submitting to our readers, (almost entire,) +one of the stories of the forthcoming _Chronicles of the Canongate_, +it being the second narrative, and the last in the first volume, and +as well as the others, founded on true incidents. The _Chronicles_ +are domestic tales; but the _Two Drovers_ should not be taken as a +specimen of the work. Slender as are its incidents, it proves that +"Richard (or Walter) is himself again," for in no vein of writing is +the author of Waverley more felicitous than in delineating scenes of +actual life, splendid as are his narratives of the fairy scenes and +halls of romance: and in the prevailing taste for this description of +writing, we think the Chronicles of the Canongate bid fair to enjoy +popularity equal to any of Sir Walter's previous productions.] + + +_The Two Drovers_. + +It was the day after the Doune Fair when my story commences. It had +been a brisk market, several dealers had attended from the northern +and midland counties in England, and the English money had flown so +merrily about as to gladden the hearts of the Highland farmers. Many +large droves were about to set off for England, under the protection +of their owners, or of the topsmen whom they employed in the tedious, +laborious and responsible office of driving the cattle for many +hundred miles, from the market where they had been purchased, to the +fields or farm-yards where they were to be fattened for the shambles. + +Of the number who left Doune in the morning, and with the purpose we +have described, not a _Glunamie_ of them all cocked his bonnet more +briskly, or gartered his tartan hose under knee over a pair of more +promising _spiogs_ (legs), than did Robin Oig M'Combich, called +familiarly Robin Oig, that is Young, or the Lesser, Robin. Though +small of stature, as the epithet Oig implies, and not very strongly +limbed, he was as light and alert as one of the deer of his mountains. +He had an elasticity of step, which, in the course of a long march, +made many a stout fellow envy him; and the manner in which he busked +his plaid and adjusted his bonnet, argued a consciousness that so +smart a John Highlandman as himself would not pass unnoticed among the +Lowland lasses. The ruddy cheek, red lips, and white teeth, set off a +countenance which had gained by exposure to the weather, a healthful +and hardy rather than a rugged hue. If Robin Oig did not laugh, +or even smile frequently, as indeed is not the practice among his +countrymen, his bright eyes usually gleamed from under his bonnet +with an expression of cheerfulness ready to be turned into mirth. + +The departure of Robin Oig was an incident in the little town, in +and near which he had many friends male and female. He was a topping +person in his way, transacted considerable business on his own behalf, +and was intrusted by the best farmers in the Highlands, in preference +to any other drover in that district. He might have increased his +business to any extent had he condescended to manage it by deputy; but +except a lad or two, sister's sons of his own, Robin rejected the idea +of assistance, conscious, perhaps how much his reputation depended +upon his attending in person to the practical discharge of his duty +in every instance. He remained, therefore, contented with the highest +premium given to persons of his description, and comforted himself +with the hopes that a few journeys to England might enable him to +conduct business on his own account, in a manner becoming his birth. +For Robin Oig's father, Lachlan M'Combich, (or, _son of my friend_, +his actual clan surname being M'Gregor,) had been so called by the +celebrated Rob Roy, because of the particular friendship which had +subsisted between the grandsire of Robin and that renowned cateran. +Some people even say, that Robin Oig derived his Christian name from a +man, as renowned in the wilds of Lochlomond, as ever was his namesake +Robin Hood, in the precincts of merry Sherwood. "Of such ancestry," +as James Boswell says, "who would not be proud?" Robin Oig was proud +accordingly; but his frequent visits to England and to the Lowlands +had given him tact enough to know that pretensions, which still gave +him a little right to distinction in his own lonely glen, might be +both obnoxious and ridiculous if preferred elsewhere. The pride of +birth, therefore, was like the miser's treasure, the secret subject of +his contemplation, but never exhibited to strangers as a subject of +boasting. + +Many were the words of gratulation and goodluck which were bestowed on +Robin Oig. The judges commended his drove, especially the best of them, +which were Robin's own property. Some thrust out their snuff-mulls for +the parting pinch--others tendered the _doch-an-dorrach_, or parting +cup. All cried--"Good-luck travel out with you and come home with +you.--Give you luck in the Saxon market--brave notes in the +_leabhar-dhu_, (black pocket-book,) and plenty of English gold in the +_sporran_ (pouch of goat-skin.)" + +The bonny lasses made their adieus more modestly, and more than one, +it was said, would have given her best brooch to be certain that it +was upon her that his eye last rested as he turned towards his road. + +Robin Oig had just given the preliminary "_Hoo-hoo!_" to urge forward +the loiterers of the drove, when there was a cry behind him. + +"Stay, Robin--bide a blink. Here is Janet of Tomahourich--auld Janet, +your father's sister." + +"Plague on her, for an auld Highland witch and spaewife," said a +farmer from the Carse of Stirling; "she'll cast some of her cantrips +on the cattle." + +"She canna do that," said another sapient of the same +profession--"Robin Oig is no the lad to leave any of them, without +tying Saint Mungo's knot on their tails, and that will put to her +speed the best witch that ever flew over Dimayet upon a broomstick." + +It may not be indifferent to the reader to know, that the Highland +cattle are peculiarly liable to be _taken_, or infected, by spells and +witchcraft, which judicious people guard against by knitting knots of +peculiar complexity on the tuft of hair which terminates the animal's +tail. + +But the old woman who was the object of the farmer's suspicion, seemed +only busied about the drover, without paying any attention to the +flock. Robin, on the contrary, appeared rather impatient of her +presence. + +"What auld-world fancy," he said, "has brought you so early from the +ingle-side this morning, Muhme? I am sure I bid you good even, and had +your God-speed, last night." + +"And left me more siller than the useless old woman will use till you +come back again, bird of my bosom," said the sibyl. "But it is little +I would care for the food that nourishes me, or the fire that warms +me, or for God's blessed sun itself, if aught but weal should happen +to the grandson of my father. So let me walk the _deasil_ round you, +that you may go safe out into the far foreign land, and come safe +home." + +Robin Oig stopped, half embarrassed, half laughing, and signing to +those around that he only complied with the old woman to soothe her +humour. In the meantime, she traced around him, with wavering steps, +the propitiation, which some have thought has been derived from the +Druidical mythology. It consists, as is well known, in the person who +makes the _deasil_, walking three times round the person who is the +object of the ceremony, taking care to move according to the course +of the sun. At once, however, she stopped short, and exclaimed, in a +voice of alarm and horror, "Grandson of my father, there is blood on +your hand." "Hush, for God's sake, aunt," said Robin Oig; "you will +bring more trouble on yourself with this Taishataragh (second sight) +than you will be able to get out of for many a day." + +The old woman only repeated, with a ghastly look, "There is blood on +your hand, and it is English blood. The blood of the Gael is richer +and redder. Let us see--let us--" + +Ere Robin Oig could prevent her, which, indeed, could only have been +by positive violence, so hasty and peremptory were her proceedings, +she had drawn from his side the dirk which lodged in the folds of his +plaid, and held it up, exclaiming, although the weapon gleamed clear +and bright in the sun, "Blood, blood--Saxon blood again. Robin Oig +M'Combich, go not this day to England!" + +"Prutt, trutt," answered Robin Oig, "that will never do neither--it +would be next thing to running the country. For shame, Muhme--give me +the dirk. You cannot tell by the colour the difference betwixt the +blood of a black bullock and a white one, and you speak of knowing +Saxon from Gaelic blood. All men have their blood from Adam, Muhme. +Give me my skenedhu, and let me go on my road. I should have been half +way to Stirling brig by this time--Give me my dirk, and let me go." + +"Never will I give it to you," said the old woman--"Never will I quit +my hold on your plaid, unless you promise me not to wear that unhappy +weapon." + +The women around him urged him also, saying few of his aunt's words +fell to the ground; and as the Lowland farmers continued to look +moodily on the scene, Robin Oig determined to close it at any +sacrifice. + +"Well, then," said the young drover, giving the scabbard of the weapon +to Hugh Morrison, "you Lowlanders care nothing for these freats. Keep +my dirk for me. I cannot give it you, because it was my father's; but +your drove follows ours, and I am content it should be in your +keeping, not in mine. Will this do, Muhme?" + +"It must", said the old woman--"that is, if the Lowlander is mad +enough to carry the knife." + +The strong westlandman laughed aloud. + +"Good wife," said he, "I am Hugh Morrison from Glenae, come of the +Manly Morrisons of auld langsyne, that never took short weapon against +a man in their lives. And neither needed they; they had their +broadswords, and I have this bit supple (showing a formidable +cudgel)--for dirking ower the board, I leave that to John Highlandman. +Ye needna snort, none of you Highlanders, and you in especial, Robin. +I'll keep the bit knife, if you are feared for the auld spae-wife's +tale, and give it back to you whenever you want it." + +Robin was not particularly pleased with some part of Hugh Morrison's +speech; but he had learned in his travels more patience than belonged +to his Highland constitution originally, and he accepted the service +of the descendant of the Manly Morrisons, without finding fault with +the rather depreciating manner in which it was offered. + +"If he had not had his morning in his head, and been but a +Dumfries-shire hog into the boot, he would have spoken more like a +gentleman. But you cannot have more of a sow but a grumph. It's a +shame my father's knife should ever slash a haggis for the like of +him." + +Thus saying, (but saying it in Gaelic,) Robin drove on his cattle, and +waved farewell to all behind him. He was in the greater haste, because +he expected to join at Falkirk a comrade and brother in profession, +with whom he proposed to travel in company. + +Robin Oig's chosen friend was a young Englishman, Harry Wakefield by +name, well known at every northern market, and in his way as much +famed and honoured as our Highland driver of bullocks. He was nearly +six feet high, gallantly formed to keep the rounds at Smithfield, or +maintain the ring at a wrestling-match; and although he might have +been overmatched, perhaps, among the regular professors of the Fancy, +yet as a chance customer, he was able to give a bellyful to any +amateur of the pugilistic art. Doncaster races saw him in his glory, +betting his guinea, and generally successfully; nor was there a main +fought in Yorkshire, the feeders being persons of celebrity, at which +he was not to be seen, if business permitted. But though a _sprack_ +lad, and fond of pleasure and its haunts, Harry Wakefield was steady, +and not the cautious Robin Oig M'Combich himself was more attentive to +the main chance. His holidays were holidays indeed; but his days of +work were dedicated to steady and persevering labour. In countenance +and temper, Wakefield was the model of Old England's merry yeomen, +whose clothyard shafts, in so many hundred battles, asserted her +superiority over the nations, and whose good sabres, in our own time, +are her cheapest and most assured defence. His mirth was readily +excited; for, strong in limb and constitution, and fortunate in +circumstances, he was disposed to be pleased with every thing about +him; and such difficulties as he might occasionally encounter, were, +to a man of his energy, rather matter of amusement than serious +annoyance. With all the merits of a sanguine temper, our young English +drover was not without his defects. He was irascible, and sometimes to +the verge of being quarrelsome; and perhaps not the less inclined to +bring his disputes to a pugilistic decision, because he found few +antagonists able to stand up to him in the boxing-ring. + +It is difficult to say how Henry Wakefield and Robin Oig first became +intimates; but it is certain a close acquaintance had taken place +betwixt them, although they had apparently few common topics of +conversation or of interest, so soon as their talk ceased to be of +bullocks. Robin Oig, indeed, spoke the English language rather +imperfectly upon any other topics but stots and kyloes, and Harry +Wakefield could never bring his broad Yorkshire tongue to utter a +single word of Gaelic. It was in vain Robin spent a whole morning, +during a walk over Minch-Moor, in attempting to teach his companion to +utter, with true precision, the shibboleth _Llhu_, which is the Gaelic +for a calf. + +The pair of friends had traversed with their usual cordiality the +grassy wilds of Liddesdale, and crossed the opposite part of +Cumberland, emphatically called the Waste. In these solitary regions, +the cattle under the charge of our drovers subsisted themselves +cheaply, by picking their food as they went along the drove-road, or +sometimes by the tempting opportunity of a _start and owerloup_, or +invasion of the neighbouring pasture, where an occasion presented +itself. But now the scene changed before them; they were descending +towards a fertile and enclosed country, where no such liberties could +be taken with impunity, or without a previous arrangement and bargain +with the possessors of the ground. This was more especially the case, +as a great northern fair was upon the eve of taking place, where both +the Scotch and English drover expected to dispose of a part of their +cattle, which it was desirable to produce in the market, rested and in +good order. Fields were therefore difficult to be obtained, and only +upon high terms. This necessity occasioned a temporary separation +betwixt the two friends, who went to bargain, each as he could, for +the separate accommodation of his herd. Unhappily it chanced that both +of them, unknown to each other, thought of bargaining for the ground +they wanted on the property of a country gentleman of some fortune, +whose estate lay in the neighbourhood. The English drover applied to +the bailiff on the property, who was known to him. It chanced that the +Cumbrian Squire, who had entertained some suspicions of his manager's +honesty, was taking occasional measures to ascertain how far they were +well founded, and had desired that any inquiries about his enclosures, +with a view to occupy them for a temporary purpose, should be referred +to himself. As, however, Mr. Ireby had gone the day before upon a +journey of some miles distance to the northward, the bailiff chose +to consider the check upon his full powers as for the time removed, +and concluded that he should best consult his master's interest +and perhaps his own, in making an agreement with Harry Wakefield. +Meanwhile, ignorant of what his comrade was doing, Robin Oig, on his +side, chanced to be overtaken by a well-looked smart little man upon a +pony, most knowingly hogged and cropped, as was then the fashion, the +rider wearing tight leather breeches, and long-necked bright spurs. +This cavalier asked one or two pertinent questions about markets and +the price of stock. So Donald, seeing him a well-judging, civil +gentleman, took the freedom to ask him whether he could let him know +if there was any grass-land to be let in that neighbourhood, for the +temporary accommodation of his drove. He could not have put the +question to more willing ears. The gentleman of the buckskins was the +proprietor, with whose bailiff Harry Wakefield had dealt, or was in +the act of dealing. + +"Thou art in good luck, my canny Scot," said Mr. Ireby, "to have +spoken to me, for I see thy cattle have done their day's work, and I +have at my disposal the only field within three miles that is to be +let in these parts." + +"The drove can pe gang two, three, four miles very pratty weel +indeed--" said the cautious Highlander; "put what would his honour pe +axing for the peasts pe the head, if she was to tak the park for twa +or three days?" + +"We wont differ, Sawney, if you let me have six stots for winterers, +in the way of reason." + +"And which peasts wad your honour pe for having?" + +"Why--let me see--the two black--the dun one--yon doddy--him with the +twisted horn--and brockit--How much by the head?" + +"Ah," said Robin, "your honour is a shudge--a real shudge--I couldna +have set off the pest six peasts petter myself, me that ken them as if +they were my pairns, puir things." + +"Well, how much per head, Sawney," continued Mr. Ireby. + +"It was high markets at Doune and Falkirk," answered Robin. + +And thus the conversation proceeded, until they had agreed on the +_prix juste_ for the bullocks, the Squire throwing in the temporary +accommodation of the enclosure for the cattle into the boot, and Robin +making, as he thought, a very good bargain, providing the grass was +but tolerable. The Squire walked his pony alongside of the drove, +partly to show him the way, and see him put into possession of the +field, and partly to learn the latest news of the northern markets. + +They arrived at the field, and the pasture seemed excellent. But what +was their surprise when they saw the bailiff quietly inducting the +cattle of Harry Wakefield into the grassy Goshen which had just been +assigned to those of Robin Oig M'Combich by the proprietor himself. +Squire Ireby set spurs to his horse, dashed up to his servant, and +learning what had passed between the parties, briefly informed the +English drover that his bailiff had let the ground without his +authority, and that he might seek grass for his cattle wherever he +would, since he was to get none there. At the same time he rebuked his +servant severely for having transgressed his commands, and ordered him +instantly to assist in ejecting the hungry and weary cattle of Harry +Wakefield, which were just beginning to enjoy a meal of unusual +plenty, and to introduce those of his comrade, whom the English drover +now began to consider as a rival. + +The feelings which arose in Wakefield's mind, would have induced him +to resist Mr. Ireby's decision; but every Englishman has a tolerably +accurate sense of law and justice, and John Fleecebumpkin, the +bailiff, having acknowledged that he had exceeded his commission, +Wakefield saw nothing else for it than to collect his hungry and +disappointed charge, and drive them on to seek quarters elsewhere. +Robin Oig saw what had happened with regret, and hastened to offer +to his English friend to share with him the disputed possession. But +Wakefield's pride was severely hurt, and he answered disdainfully, +"Take it all man--take it all--never make two bites of a cherry--thou +canst talk over the gentry, and blear a plain man's eye--Out upon you, +man--I would not kiss any man's dirty latchets for leave to bake in +his oven." + +Robin Oig, sorry but not surprised at his comrade's displeasure, +hastened to entreat his friend to wait but an hour till he had gone +to the Squire's house to receive payment for the cattle he had sold, +and he would come back and help him to drive the cattle into some +convenient place of rest, and explain to him the whole mistake they +had both of them fallen into. But the Englishman continued indignant: +"Thou hast been selling, hast thou? Ay, ay--thou is a cunning lad for +kenning the hours of bargaining. Go to the devil with thyself, for I +will ne'er see thy fause loon's visage again--thou should be ashamed +to look me in the face." + +"I am ashamed to look no man in the face," said Robin Oig, something +moved; "and, moreover, I will look you in the face this blessed day, +if you will bide at the Clachan down yonder." + +"Mayhap you had as well keep away," said his comrade; and turning his +back on his former friend, he collected his unwilling associates, +assisted by the bailiff, who took some real and some affected interest +in seeing Wakefield accommodated. + +After spending some time in negotiating with more than one of the +neighbouring farmers, who could not, or would not, afford the +accommodation desired, Henry Wakefield, at last, and in his necessity, +accomplished his point by means of the landlord of the alehouse at which +Robin Oig and he had agreed to pass the night, when they first separated +from each other. Mine host was content to let him turn his cattle on a +piece of barren moor, at a price little less than the bailiff had asked +for the disputed enclosure; and the wretchedness of the pasture, as well +as the price paid for it, were set down as exaggerations of the breach +of faith and friendship of his Scottish crony. This turn of Wakefield's +passions was encouraged by the bailiff (who had his own reasons for +being offended against poor Robin, as having been the unwitting cause of +his falling into disgrace with his master), as well as by the innkeper, +and two or three chance guests, who soothed the drover in his resentment +against his quondam associate,--some from the ancient grudge against the +Scots, which, when it exists any where, is to be found lurking in the +Border counties, and some from the general love of mischief, which +characterizes mankind in all ranks of life, to the honour of Adam's +children be it spoken. Good John Barleycorn also, who always heightens +and exaggerates the prevailing passions, be they angry or kindly, was +not wanting in his offices on this occasion; and confusion to false +friends and hard masters, was pledged in more than one tankard. + +In the meanwhile, Mr. Ireby found some amusement in detaining the +northern drover at his ancient hall. He caused a cold round of beef +to be placed before the Scot in the butler's pantry, together with a +foaming tankard of home-brewed, and took pleasure in seeing the hearty +appetite with which these unwonted edibles were discussed by Robin Oig +M'Combich. The squire himself lighting his pipe, compounded between his +patrician dignity and his love of agricultural gossip, by walking up and +down while he conversed with his guest. + +"I passed another drove," said the squire, with one of your countrymen +behind them, they were something less beasts than your drove--doddies +most of them; a big man was with them--none of your kilts though, but +a decent pair of breeches;--d'ye know who he may be?" + +"Hout ay--that might, could, and would pe Hughie Morrison--I didna +think he could hae peen sae weel up. He has made a day on us; put his +Argyle-shires will have wearied shanks. How far was he pehind?" + +"I think about six or seven miles," answered the squire, "for I passed +them at the Christenbury Cragg, and I overtook you at the Hollan Bush. +If his beasts be leg-weary, he will be may be selling bargains." + +"Na, na, Hughie Morrison is no the man for pargains--ye maun come to +some Highland body like Robin Oig hersell for the like of these;--put +I maun be wishing you good night, and twenty of them, let alane ane, +and I maun down to the Clachan to see if the lad Henry Waakfelt is out +of his humdudgeons yet." + +The party at the alehouse were still in full talk, and the treachery +of Robin Oig still the theme of conversation, when the supposed +culprit entered the apartment. His arrival, as usually happens in +such a case, put an instant stop to the discussion of which he had +furnished the subject, and he was received by the company assembled +with that chilling silence, which more than a thousand exclamations +tells an intruder that he is unwelcome. Surprised and offended, but +not appalled by the reception which he experienced, Robin entered with +an undaunted, and even a haughty air, attempted no greeting as he saw +he was received with none, and placed himself by the side of the fire, +a little apart from a table, at which Harry Wakefield, the bailiff, +and two or three other persons, were seated. The ample Cumbrian +kitchen would have afforded plenty of room even for a larger +separation. + +Robin, thus seated, proceeded to light his pipe, and call for a pint +of twopenny. + +"We have no twopenny ale," answered Ralph Heskett, the landlord; but +as thou find'st thy own tobacco, its like thou may'st find thine own +liquor too--it's the wont of thy country, I wot." + +"Shame, goodman," said the landlady, a blithe, bustling housewife, +hastening herself to suply the guest with liquor--"Thou knowest well +enow what the strange man wants, and it's thy trade to be a civil man. +Thou shouldest know, that if the Scot likes a small pot, he pays a +sure penny." + +Without taking any notice of this nuptial dialogue, the Highlander +took the flagon in his hand, and, addressing the company generally, +drank the interesting toast of "Good markets," to the party assembled. + +"The better that the wind blew fewer dealers from the north," said one +of the farmers, and fewer Highland runts to eat up the English +meadows." + +"Soul of my pody, put you are wrang there, my friend," answered Robin, +with composure, "it is your fat Englishmen that eat up our Scots +cattle, puir things." + +"I wish there was a summat to eat up their drovers," said another; +"a plain Englishman canna make bread within a kenning of them." + +"Or an honest servant keep his master's favour, but they will come +sliding in between him and the sunshine," said the bailiff. + +"If these pe jokes," said Robin Oig, with the same composure, "there +is ower mony jokes upon one man." + +"It is no joke, but downright earnest," said the bailiff. "Harkye, +Mr. Robin Ogg, or whatever is your name, it's right we should tell you +that we are all of one opinion, and that is, that you, Mr. Robin Ogg, +have behaved to our friend, Mr. Harry Wakefield here, like a raff and +a blackguard." + +"Nae doubt, nae doubt," answered Robin with great composure; "and you +are a set of very feeling judges, for whose prains or pehaviour I wad +not gae a pinch of sneeshing. If Mr. Harry Waakfelt kens where he is +wranged, he kens where he may be righted." + +"He speaks truth," said Wakefield, who had listened to what passed, +divided between the offence which he had taken at Robin's late +behaviour, and the revival of his habitual acts of friendship. + +He now rose and went towards Robin, who got up from his seat as he +approached, and held out his hand. + +"That's right, Harry--go it--serve him out!" resounded on all +sides--"tip him the nailer--show him the mill." + +"Hold your peace, all of you, and be----," said Wakefield; and then +addressing his comrade, he took him by the extended hand, with +something alike of respect and defiance. "Robin," he said, "thou hast +used me ill enough this day; but if you mean, like a frank fellow, to +shake hands, and take a tussel for love on the sod, why I'll forgie +thee, man, and we shall be better friends than ever." + +"And would it not pe petter to be cooed friends without more of the +matter?" said Robin; "we will be much petter friendships with our +panes hale than broken." + +Harry Wakefield dropped the hand of his friend, or rather threw it +from him. + +"I did not think I had been keeping company for three years with a +coward." + +"Coward belongs to none of my name," said Robin, whose eyes began to +kindle, but keeping the command of his temper. "It was no coward's +legs or hands, Harry Waakfelt, that drew you out of the fords of +Fried, when you was drifting ower the place rock, and every eel in the +river expected his share of you." + +"And that is true enough, too," said the Englishman, struck by the +appeal. + +"Adzooks!" exclaimed the bailiff--"sure Harry Wakefield, the nattiest +lad at Whitson Tryste, Wooler Fair, Carlisle Sands, or Stagshaw Bank, +is not going to show white feather? Ah, this comes of living so long +with kilts and bonnets--men forget the use of their daddies." + +"I may teach you, Master Fleecebumpkin, that I have not lost the use +of mine," said Wakefield, and then went on. "This will never do, +Robin. We must have a turn-up, or we shall be the talk of the country +side. I'll be d----d if I hurt thee--I'll put on the gloves gin thou +like. Come, stand forward like a man." + +"To pe peaten like a dog," said Robin; "is there any reason in that? +If you think I have done you wrong, I'll go before your shudge, though +I neither know his law nor his language." + +A general cry of "No, no--no law, no lawyer! a bellyful and be +friends," was echoed by the bystanders. + +"But," continued Robin, "if I am to fight, I have no skill to fight +like a jackanapes, with hands and nails." + +"How would you fight then?" said his antagonist; "though I am thinking +it would be hard to bring you to the scratch any how." + +"I would fight with proadswords, and sink point on the first plood +drawn----- like a gentlemans." + +A loud shout of laughter followed the proposal, which indeed had +rather escaped from poor Robin's swelling heart, than been the +dictates of his sober judgment. + +"Gentleman, quotha!" was echoed on all sides, with a shout of +unextinguishable laughter; "a very pretty gentleman, God wot--Canst +get two swords for the gentleman to fight with, Ralph Heskett?" + +"No, but I can send to the armoury at Carlisle, and lend them two +forks to be making shift with in the meantime." + +"Tush, man," said another, "the bonny Scots come into the world with +the blue bonnet on their heads, and dirk and pistol at their belt." + +"Best send post," said Mr. Fleecebumpkin, "to the squire of Corby +Castle to come and stand second to the _gentleman_." + +In the midst of this torrent of general ridicule, the Highlander +instinctively griped beneath the folds of his plaid. + +"But it's better not," he said in his own language. "A hundred curses +on the swine-eaters, who know neither decency nor civility!" + +"Make room, the pack of you," he said, advancing to the door. + +But his former friend interposed his sturdy bulk, and opposed his +leaving the house; and when Robin Oig attempted to make his way by +force, he hit him down on the floor, with as much ease as a boy bowls +down a nine-pin. + +"A ring, a ring!" was now shouted, until the dark rafters, and the +hams that hung on them, trembled again, and the very platters on the +_bink_ clattered against each other. "Well done, Harry."--"Give it him +home, Harry."--"Take care of him now--he sees his own blood!" + +Such were the exclamations, while the Highlander, starting from the +ground, all his coldness and caution lost in frantic rage, sprung at +his antagonist with the fury, the activity, and the vindictive purpose +of an incensed tiger-cat. But when could rage encounter science and +temper? Robin Oig again went down in the unequal contest; and as the +blow was necessarily a severe one, he lay motionless on the floor of +the kitchen. The landlady ran to offer some aid, but Mr. Fleecebumpkin +would not permit her to approach. + +"Let him alone," he said, "he will come to within time, and come up to +the scratch again. He has not got half his broth yet." + +"He has got all I mean to give him though," said his antagonist, whose +heart began to relent towards his old associate; "and I would rather by +half give the rest to yourself, Mr. Fleecebumpkin, for you pretend to +know a thing or two, and Robin had not art enough even to peel before +setting to, but fought with his plaid dangling about him.--Stand up, +Robin, my man! all friends now; and let me hear the man that will speak +a word against you, or your country, for your sake." + +Robin Oig was still under the dominion of his passion, and eager to +renew the onset; but being withheld on the one side by the +peace-making Dame Heskett, and on the other, aware that Wakefield no +longer meant to renew the combat, his fury sunk into gloomy +sullenness. + +"Come, come, never grudge so much at it, man," said the brave-spirited +Englishman, with the placability of his country; "shake hands, and we +will be better friends than ever." + +"Friends!" exclaimed Robin Oig with strong emphasis--"friends!--Never. +Look to yourself, Harry Waakfelt." + +"Then the curse of Cromwell on your proud Scots stomach, as the man +says in the play, and you may do your worst and be d----; for one man +can say nothing more to another after a tussel, than that he is sorry +for it." + +On these terms the friends parted; Robin Oig drew out, in silence, a +piece of money, threw it on the table, and then left the alehouse. But +turning at the door, he shook his hand at Wakefield, pointing with his +fore-finger upwards, in a manner which might imply either a threat or +a caution. He then disappeared in the moonlight. + +(_To be concluded in our next_.) + + * * * * * + + +ARCANA OF SCIENCE. + + +_Sheppey_.--The isle of Sheppey is quickly giving way to the sea, and +if measures are not hereafter taken to remedy this, possibly in a +century or two hence its name may be required to be obliterated from +the map. Whole acres, with houses upon them, have been carried away in +a single storm, while clay shallows, sprinkled with sand and gravel, +which stretch a full mile beyond the verge of the cliff, over which +the sea now sweeps, demonstrate the original area of the island. From +the blue clay of which these cliffs are composed may be culled out +specimens of all the fishes, fruits, and trees, which abounded in +Britain before the birth of Noah; and the traveller may consequently +handle fish which swam, and fruit which grew, in the days of the +antediluvians, all now converted into sound stone, by the petrifying +qualities of the soil in which they are imbedded. Here are lobsters, +crabs, and nautili, presenting almost the same reality as those we now +see crawling and floating about; branches of trees, too, in as perfect +order as when lopped from their parent stems; and trunks of them, +twelve feet in length and two or three diameter, fit, in all +appearance, for the operations of the saw, with great varieties of +fruits, resembling more those of tropical climates than of cold +latitudes like ours, one species having a large kernel, with an +adherent stalk, as complete as when newly plucked from the tree that +produced it. An interesting collection of these relics of a former +world may be seen at a watchmaker's on the cliff, at Margate, +including the most remarkable productions of the isle of Sheppey. + + +_The Camelopard_. + +[Illustration: The Camelopard.] + + +As a live camelopard has been sent to London and another to Paris, the +history and habits of these animals have excited some interest. At a +meeting of the Academy of Sciences in Paris, on the 2nd of July last, M. +Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire observed that naturalists were wrong in supposing +that there was only one species of the camelopard. The animal now in +Paris differs from the Cape of Good Hope species by several essential +anatomical characters, and he proposes to distinguish it by the name of +the _Giraffe of Sennaar_, the country from which it comes. Some natives +of Egypt having come to see the one in Paris in the costume of the +country, the animal gave evident proofs of joy, and loaded them with +caresses. This fact is explained by the circumstance that the Giraffe +has an ardent affection for its Arabian keeper, and that it naturally is +delighted with the sight of the turban and the costume of its keeper. + +Some authors have proved the mildness and docility of the camelopard, +while others represent it as incapable of being tamed. This difference +is ascribed by M. Saint-Hilaire to difference of education. Four or +five years ago a male Giraffe, extremely savage, was brought to +Constantinople. The keeper of the present Giraffe had also the charge +of this one, and he ascribes its savageness entirely to the manner in +which it was treated. At the same time M. Mongez read a memoir on the +testimony of ancient authors respecting the Giraffe. Moses is the +first author who speaks of it. As Aristotle does not mention it, M. +Mongez supposes that it was unknown to the Greeks, and that it did not +then exist in Egypt, otherwise Aristotle, who travelled there, must +have known about it. In the year 708 of Rome, Julius Caesar brought +one to Europe, and the Roman emperors afterwards exhibited them at +Rome, either for the games in the circus, or in their triumphs over +the African princes. Albertus Magnus, in his _Treatise de Animalibus_, +is the first modern author who speaks of the Giraffe. In 1486, one of +the Medici family possessed one at Florence, where it lived for a +considerable time. + +In its native country the Giraffe browses on the twigs of trees, +preferring plants of the Mimosa genus; but it appears that it can +without inconvenience subsist on other vegetable food. The one kept +at Florence fed on the fruits of the country, and chiefly on apples, +which it begged from the inhabitants of the first storeys of the +houses. The one now in Paris, from its having been accustomed in early +life to the food prepared by the Arabs for their camels, is fed on +mixed grains bruised, such as maize, barley, &c., and it is furnished +with milk for drink morning and evening. It however willingly accepts +fruits and the branches of the acacia which are presented to it. It +seizes the leaves with its long rugous and narrow tongue by rolling it +about them, and seems annoyed when it is obliged to take any thing +from the ground, which it seems to do with difficulty. To accomplish +this it stretches first one, then the other of its long fore-legs +asunder, and it is not till after repeated attempts that it is able to +seize the objects with its lips and tongue. + +The pace of the Giraffe is an amble, though when pursued it flies with +extreme rapidity, but the small size of its lungs prevents it from +supporting a lengthened chase. The Giraffe defends itself against the +lion, its principal enemy, with its fore feet, with which it strikes +with such force as often to repulse him. The specimen in the museum at +Paris is about two years and a half old. + +The name _Camelo-pardalis_ (camel-leopard) was given by the Romans to +this animal, from a fancied combination of the characters of the camel +and leopard; but its ancient denomination was _Zurapha_, from which +the name Giraffe has been adopted.--_Brewster's Journal_. + + +_Sugar_. + +About 3,700,000 cwt. of sugar are annually imported from the West +Indies. An advance in price, therefore, of one penny per pound is a +charge on the public of 1,726,600_l._ a year, being more than one-third +of the gross amount of the duty levied at the Custom-house for the +revenue. + + +_Silk_. + +Lord Kingston has upwards of 30,000 mulberry-trees growing upon one +estate in Ireland, and has already sent raw silk into the market. + + * * * * * + + +SINGULAR ASSASSINATION IN KINCARDINESHIRE. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + +The fate of one of the sheriffs of this county, in former times, +merits notice, especially as connected with a ruin in the parish of +Eccliscraig, formerly a place of great strength, being erected on a +perpendicular and peninsulated rock, sixty feet above the sea, at the +mouth of a small rivulet. It was built in consequence of a murder +committed in the reign of James the First, and the circumstance +deserves to be recorded, as it affords a specimen of the barbarity of +the times. Melville, sheriff of Kincardineshire, had, by a vigorous +exercise of his authority, rendered himself so very obnoxious to the +barons of the county, that they had made repeated complaints to the +king. On the last of these occasions the king, in a fit of impatience, +happened to say to Barclay, of Mathers, "I wish that sheriff were +sodden and supped in brue." Barclay instantly withdrew, and reported +to his neighbours the king's words, which they resolved literally +to fulfil. Accordingly, the conspirators invited the unsuspecting +Melville to a hunting party in the forest of Garvock; where, having a +fire kindled, and a cauldron of water boiling on it, they rushed to +the spot, stripped the sheriff naked, and threw him headlong into +the boiling vessel: after which, on pretence of fulfilling the royal +mandate, each swallowed a spoonful of the broth. After this cannibal +feast, Barclay, to screen himself from the vengeance of the king, +built this fortress, which before the invention of gunpowder must have +been impregnable. Some of the conspirators were afterwards pardoned. +One of the pardons is said to be still in existence; and the reason +assigned for granting it is, that the conspirator was within the tenth +degree of kin to Macduff, thane of Fife. + +CHARLES STUART. + + + * * * * * + + +USE OF HORSE-CHESTNUTS. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + +These nuts are much used in France and in Switzerland, in whitening +not only of hemp and flax, but also of silk and wool. They contain a +soapy juice, fit for washing of linens and stuffs, for milling of caps +and stockings, &c., and for fulling of stuffs and cloths. + +Twenty nuts are sufficient for five quarts of water. They must be first +peeled, which can be done by children, then rasped or dried, and ground +in a malt-mill, or any other common steel mill. The water must be soft, +either rain or river water, for hard well water will by no means do. +When the nuts are rasped or ground, they must be steeped in the water +quite cold, which soon becomes frothy, (as it does with soap,) and then +turns white as milk. It must be well stirred at first with a stick, and +then, after standing some time to settle, must be strained, or poured +off quite clear. Linen washed in this liquor, and afterwards rinsed in +clear running water, takes an agreeable light sky-blue colour. It takes +spots out of both linen and woollen, and never damages or injures the +cloth. Poultry will eat the meal of them, if it is steeped in hot water, +and mixed with an equal quantity of pollard. The nuts also are eat by +some cows, and without hurting their milk; but they are excellent for +horses whose wind is injured. + +A.B. + + * * * * * + + +A FETCH. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + + "I do believe," (as Byron cries,) + "There is a haunted spot, + And I can point out where it lies, + But cannot--where 'tis not. + + Turn gentle people, lend an ear, + Unto my simple tale, + It will not draw a single tear + Nor make the heart bewail, + + 'Tis of a ghost! O ladies fair! + Start not with sore affright, + It will not harm a single hair, + Nor 'make it stand upright." + + Attend, it was but yesternight, + I in my garret sat, + I saw--no, nothing yet I saw, + But something went pit-pat. + + So did my heart responsively, + Beat like a prison'd bird, + That's newly caught--but no reply + I made, to what I heard. + + It nearer came--'Angels,' I cried, + 'And Ministers of Grace defend.' + Yet nothing I as yet descried, + My hair stood all on end. + + My breath was short, I'm sure my eye + Was dim, so was the light, + I thought that I that hour should die, + With sad and sore affright. + + And then came o'er me--what came o'er? + Some spectre grim I'll bet, + O tell me!--why at every pore-- + A very heavy sweat. + + Poh, don't delay the wond'rous tale, + What follow'd? tell me that, + (I feel my heart and limbs too fail) + The same thing, pit-a-pat. + + And then there came before my eyes, + I pray thee 'list, O list,' + You fill my heart with dread surprise + What was it? why a mist. + + And then around my head there play'd + A flame, so wond'rous bright, + That made me more than all afraid-- + My wig had caught the light. + + And there came wand'ring by at last, + The same thing, pit-a-pat, + I found as 'cross the room it past, + The cat had got a rat. + + +MAY. + + + * * * * * + + +TEA. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + "The Muses' friend, _tea_, does our fancy aid, + Repress those vapours which the head invade." + + +WALLER. + + +The tea-tree loves to grow in valleys, at the foot of mountains, and +upon the banks of rivers, where it enjoys a southern exposure to the +sun, though it endures considerable variations of heat and cold, as it +flourishes in the northern clime of Peking, as well as about Canton; +and it is observed that the degree of cold at Peking is as severe in +winter as in some parts of Europe. However, the best tea grows in a +mild, temperate climate, the country about Nanking producing better +tea than either Peking or Canton, betwixt which places it is situated. +The root resembles that of the peach-tree; the leaves are green, +longish at the point, and narrow, an inch and half long, and jagged +all round. The flower is much like that of the wild rose, but smaller. +The fruit is of different forms, sometimes round, sometimes long, +sometimes triangular, and of the ordinary size of a bean, containing +two or three seeds, of a mouse colour, including each a kernel. These +are the seeds by which the plant is propagated, a number, from six to +twelve, or fifteen, being promiscuously put into one hole, four or +five inches deep, at certain distances from each other. The seeds +vegetate without any other care, though the more industrious annually +remove the weeds and manure the land. The leaves which succeed are not +fit to be plucked before the third year's growth, at which period they +are plentiful, and in their prime. In about seven years the shrub +rises to a man's height, and as it then bears few leaves, and grows +slowly, it is cut down to the stem, which occasions an exuberance of +fresh shoots and leaves the succeeding summer. In Japan, the tea-tree +is cultivated round the borders of the fields, without regard to soil, +but as the Chinese export great quantities of tea, they plant whole +fields with it. The tea-trees that yield often the finest leaves, grow +on the steep declivities of hills, where it is dangerous and in some +cases impracticable to collect them. The Chinese are said to vanquish +this difficulty by a singular contrivance. The large monkeys which +inhabit these cliffs are irritated, and in revenge they break off the +branches and throw them down, so that the leaves are thus obtained. +The leaves should be dried as soon as possible after they are +gathered. The Chinese are always taking tea, especially at meals; it +is the chief treat with which they regale their friends, but they use +it without the addition of sugar and milk. Tea was first introduced +into Europe by the Dutch East India Company very early in the +seventeenth century, and a great quantity of it was brought over +from Holland by Lord Arlington and Lord Ossory about the year 1666, +at which time it sold for 60s. per pound. Tea exhilarates without +intoxication, and its enlivening qualities are equally felt by the +sedentary student and the active labourer. Dr. Johnson dearly loved +tea, and drank great quantities of this elegant and popular beverage, +and so does P.T.W. + + + * * * * * + + +PORSON. + +The late professor having once exasperated a disputant by the dryness +of his sarcasm, the petulant opponent thus addressed him:--"Mr. +Porson, I beg leave to tell you, sir, that my opinion of you is +perfectly contemptible." Person replied, "I never knew an opinion of +yours, sir, which was not contemptible." + + * * * * * + + +THE DRAMA AND ITS PROFESSORS. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + +It is remarkable with what difference actors were treated among the +ancients. At Athens, they were held in such esteem, as to be sometimes +appointed to discharge embassies and other negotiations; whereas, at +Rome, if a citizen became an actor, he thereby forfeited his freedom. +Among the moderns, actors are best treated in England; the French having +much the same opinion of them that the Romans had; for though an actor +of talent, in Paris, is more regarded than here, he nevertheless is +deeply degraded. He may die amid applauses on the stage, but at his +natural death, he must pass to his grave, without a prayer or _de +profundis_, unless a minister of religion receives his last sigh. + +Cromwell and his Puritans had a holy horror of actors. They pronounced +them Sons of Belial! and professors of abomination. During the whole +reign of the Republican Parliament, and Protectorate, the theatres of +that day were closed, or, if opened by stealth, were subject to the +visits of the emissaries of "Praise God Barebones," "Fight the Good +Fight," and their crew. The actors were driven off the stage by +soldiers, and the cant word of that period is still recorded, "Enter +red coat, exit hat and cloak." William Prynne was celebrated for his +writings against the immorality of the stage, and the furious invectives +of Jeremy Collier, are still extant; his pen was roused by Dryden's +_Spanish Friar_, and Congreve's witty, but licentious comedies. Collier +inveighed without mercy, but he certainly did much to reform the stage. +Our Evangelicals and Methodists denounce the histrionic art to this day, +with more than the zeal of the Church of Rome. But a follower of Wesley +or Whitfield would not enter the den of abomination. Here, however, we +take care all our comedies shall be purified, and our tragedies free, +even from an oath; both are subject to the censor's unsparing pen, and +must be subsequently licensed by the Lord Chamberlain. + +The actors in England, have, it is true, only become respectable +within the last half century, and though they are termed his majesty's +servants, yet an _unrepealed_ statute denounces them as vagabonds. +As a body, numerous in itself, they are as free from crime as any other +associated body or profession of men, and yet do they "his majesty's +servants" continue to lay under the stigma which the above unrepealed +act fixes upon them. This is perfectly anomalous, and it was spiritedly +denounced by Sir Walter Scott, when on a recent and interesting occasion +he nobly and manfully declared "Its professors had been stigmatized; and +laws had been passed against them less dishonourable to them than to the +statesman by whom they were proposed, and to the legislators by whom +they were passed." To repeal, therefore, an act nugatory in itself, +would not add to the reputation of the profession, nor give a license to +further abuse; but it would be an act of justice, and remove a prejudice +unjustly attached to the professors of a difficult art. + +The critical pen of Mrs. Inchbald justly remarks, "To the honour of +a profession long held in contempt by the wise--and still contemned +by the weak--Shakspeare, the pride of Britain, was a player." To the +illustrious bard, the modern drama is indebted for its excellence. His +writings will remain for ever the grandest monument of a genius which +opened to him the whole heart of man, all the mines of fancy, all the +stores of nature, and gave him power beyond all other writers, to move, +astonish, and delight mankind. In the drama, the most interesting +emotions are excited; the dangerous passions of hate, envy, avarice, and +pride, with all their innumerable train of attendant vices, are detected +and exposed. Love, friendship, gratitude, and all those active and +generous virtues which warm the heart and exalt the mind, are held up +as objects of emulation. And what can be a more effectual method of +softening the ferocity, and improving the minds of the inconsiderate? +The heart is melted by the scene, and ready to receive an +impression--either to warn the innocent, or to appal the guilty; and +numbers of those who have neither abilities nor time for deriving +advantage from reading, are powerfully impressed through the medium +of the eyes and ears, with those important truths which while they +illuminate the understanding, correct the heart. The moral laws of the +drama are said to have an effect next after those conveyed from the +pulpit, or promulgated in courts of justice. Mr. Burke, indeed, has gone +so far as to observe that "the theatre is a better school of moral +sentiment than churches." The drama, therefore, has a right to find a +place; and to its professors are we indebted for what may justly be +considered one of the highest of all intellectual gratifications. + +F.K.Y. + + * * * * * + + +MEMORY. + +(_For the Mirror_.) + + + How many a mortal bears a heavy chain, + Of bitter sorrow, 'neath thy iron reign, + And many a one, whose harder fate has given, + Some early woes, by thee to madness driven, + Sees the sad vision of some bygone day, + And thinks on what he hath seen with dismay: + So some lone murderer, wanders o'er the world + By thy dread arm to desperation hurl'd; + In vain he prays, or bends the lowly knee, + With fiendlike power, thou dragg'st him back with thee, + Point'st to some scene of early guilt and woe, + Opening the source from whence his sorrows flow. + As round the bark which feels the tempest's shock, + The lightning plays, and shows the fatal rock, + So memory brings our sorrows all to light + With vivid truth presents them to the sight; + Pursues the wretch who else some joy might find, + To fix her seat of empire in his mind. + As desert lakes in sad illusion fly, + Before the weary traveller's cheated eye + So memory shows, those hopes we still would cherish. + Pleased but to fade, allured us but to perish. + +M.B.S. + + * * * * * + + + + +SPIRIT OF THE PUBLIC JOURNALS. + + * * * * * + +ON COALHEAVERS. + + +Although in this age of all but universal hypocrisy and make-believe, +every man has at least two fashions of one countenance, it is in dress +principally that most men are most unlike themselves. But the coalheaver +always sticks close to the attire of his station; he alone wears the +consistent and befitting garb of his forefathers; he alone has not +discarded "the napless vesture of humility," to follow the always +expensive, and often absurd fashions of his superiors. All ungalled of +him is each courtier's heel or great man's kibe. Yet, is not even his +every-day clothing unseemly, or his aspect unprepossessing. He casts +as broad and proper a shadow in the sun as any other man. Black he is, +indeed, but comely, like the daughters of Jerusalem.--To begin with the +hat which he has honoured with a preference--what are your operas or +your fire-shovels beside it? they must instantly (on a fair comparison) +sink many degrees below zero in the scale of contempt. In a word, I +would make bold to assert that it unites in perfection the two grand +requisites of a head covering, beauty and comfort. Gentlemen may smile +at this if they will, and take exception to my taste; but, I ask, does +the modern round hat, whatever the insignificant variations of its form, +possess either quality? No, not a jot of it. One would think, by our +pertinacious adherence to the head-ach giving, circular conformation, +that we wished to show our anger at the Almighty for not shaping our +caputs like cylinders. In fine, though the parson's and the quaker's hat +has each its several merits, commend me to the fan-tailed _shallow_. +The flap part attached to the cap seems, at first sight, as to use, +supernecessary, although so ornamental withal. It no doubt (as its +name, indeed indicates) had its origin in gallantry, and was invented +in the age of fans, for the purpose of cooling their mistresses' +bosoms, heated--as they would necessarily be--at fair time, by their +gravel-grinding walks, under a fervid sun, to the elegant revels of +West-end, of Greenwich, or of Tothill-fields. Breeches, rejected by +common consent of young and old alike, cling to the legs of the +coalheaver with an abiding fondness, as to the last place of refuge; +and, on gala-days, a dandy might die of envy to mark the splendour +of those nether integuments--which he has not soul enough to dare +to wear--of brilliant eye-arresting blue, or glowing scarlet plush, +glittering in the sun's rays, giving and taking glory! But enough of +the dress of these select "true-born Englishmen"--for right glad I am +to state that there are but _two_ Scotch coalheavers on the whole +river, and _no_ Irish. I beg leave to return to the more important +consideration of their manners. Most people you meet in your walks in +the common thoroughfare of London, glide, shuffle, or crawl onward, as +if they conscientiously thought they had no manner of right to tread the +earth but on sufferance. Not so our coalheaver. Mark how erect _he_ +walks! how firm a keel he presents to the vainly breasting human tide +that comes rolling on with a show of opposition to his onward course! +It is he, and he only, who preserves, in his gait and in his air, +the self-sustained and conscious dignity of the first-created man. +Surrounded by an inferior creation, he gives the wall to none. That +pliancy of temper, which is wont to make itself known by the waiving +a point or renouncing a principle for others' advantage, in him +has no place; he either knows it not, or else considers it a poor, +mean-spirited, creeping baseness, altogether unworthy of his imitation, +and best befitted with ineffable contempt. He neither dreads the contact +of the baker--the Scylla of the metropolitan peripatetic, nor yet shuns +the dire collision of the chimney-sweep--his Charybdis. Try to pass him +as he walks leisurely on, making the solid earth ring with his bold +tread, and you will experience more difficulties in the attempt than did +that famous admiral, Bartholomew Diaz, when he first doubled the Cape of +Storms. Or let us suppose, that haply you allow your frail carcass to go +full drive against his sturdiness, when lo!--in beautiful illustration +of those doctrines in projectiles, that relate to the concussion of +moving bodies--you fly off at an angle "right slick" into the middle of +the carriage-way; whence a question of some interest presently arises, +whether you will please to be run over by a short or a long stage.--But +to return. Who hesitates to make way for a coalheaver? As for their +drays--as _consecutive_ a species of vehicles as a body can be stopped +by--every one knows they make way for themselves. + +I one Sunday met a party of my favourites in St. Paul's cathedral. +They seemed to view with becoming respect and even awe that splendid +place; and they listened to and observed, with apparent profound +attention, the cathedral service. Yet I must confess my favourable +opinion of their grave looks was rather staggered by overhearing +afterwards one of them say to his neighbour, casting a look all round +the while, "My eyes, Tom, what lots o' _coals_ this here place would +hold." Perhaps the observation was meant in honour. + +_Monthly Magazine_. + + * * * * * + + +TRAVELLING FARE. + + +If you shut yourself up for some fifty hours or so in a mail-coach, +that keeps wheeling along at the rate of ten miles an hour, and +changes horses in half a minute, certainly, for obvious reasons, the +less you eat and drink the better; and perhaps a few hundred daily +drops of laudanum, or equivalent grains of opium, would be advisable, +so that the transit from London to Edinburgh might be performed in a +phantasma. But a free agent ought to live well on his travels--some +degrees better, without doubt, than when at home. People seldom live +very well at home. There is always something requiring to be eaten up, +that it may not be lost, which destroys the soothing and satisfactory +symmetry of an unexceptionable dinner. We have detected the same duck +through many unprincipled disguises, playing a different part in the +farce of domestic economy, with a versatility hardly to have been +expected in one of the most generally despised of the web-footed +tribe. When travelling at one's own sweet will, one feeds at a +different inn every meal; and, except when the coincidence of +circumstances is against you, there is an agreeable variety both +in the natural and artificial disposition of the dishes. + +_Blackwood's Magazine_. + + * * * * * + + +ENGLISH FRUITS. + +(_Continued from page 231_.) + + +_The Currant_--The native place of this useful fruit is not exactly +ascertained; nearly allied to the gooseberry, it receives the same +treatment, shows the same changes, and may be further improved by +the same means; a cross between the white Dutch and red, might be a +valuable mule. It is probable the black also may be induced to sport +from that steady character it has hitherto maintained; there are but +few domesticated plants but which (like animals) depart, in some way +or other, from their native caste. + +_The Apple_.--It is difficult to find adequate terms to set forth +the value of the advantages which have accrued to mankind from the +cultivation of this deservedly high-prized fruit. One circumstance +in the history of the apple must not pass unnoticed here, viz., the +deterioration of the old sorts, which regaled and were the boast +of our forefathers a century ago. It is the opinion of an eminent +orchardist that as the apple is an artificial production, and, as +such, has its stages of youth, maturity, and old age, it cannot, in +its period of decrepitude, be by any means renovated to its pristine +state, either by pruning or cutting down, changing its place, or by +transferring its parts to young and vigorous stocks; and that, in +whatever station it may be placed, it carries with it the decay and +diseases of its parent. This is the most rational account which has +been given of this indisputable fact; and though its accuracy has been +called in question by some naturalists, the general failure in our +old orchards, and the difficulties in forming new ones with the old +favourite sorts, is a decisive proof that such deterioration exists. +It is therefore the chief object of the modern pomologist, to obtain +from seeds of the best _wildings_ new varieties wherewith to form new +and profitable orchards; and which may be expected to continue in +health and fertility, as the old sorts have done, for the next +century. + +The foregoing are the fruits found wild in our climate; the difference +in their aboriginal and cultivated state has been pointed out; we +shall now give short descriptions of foreign fruits, which have been +partly naturalized, the management of which forms so considerable a +share of the gardener's art and attention. + +_The Apricot_.--It is supposed that this fruit is a native of Africa: +from thence it appears to have come through Persia and Greece to us, +with the name "a praecox," significant of its earliness. There are +several varieties which have been obtained by means similar to those +already mentioned; and there is room for further exertion in +endeavouring to improve the size of the fruit, or any other desirable +quality. + +_The Peach_--This delicate and excellent fruit is a striking instance +of what judicious cultivation may produce. The common almond has +always been considered the original stock of this monument of skill +and assiduity. The estimation in which it is held, and the care and +expense incurred in its cultivation both in forcing-houses and in the +open air, is proof of its superiority: and no fruit repays the labour +of the attendant, or the expense of the owner, more bountifully than +this. Seedlings of this fruit are, if we can credit what is written +and said of it, less inclined to depart from the properties or +qualities of the parent, than most others of our improved fruits. In +America, they are in common and general cultivation. No trouble is +bestowed in either layering (which is practicable), or budding them. +Sowing a quantity of the stones, they are sure to pick out from among +the seedlings as many good sorts as they may wish to cultivate: few of +these may be exactly like the parent; some may be superior, but all +are passable, especially if the young trees have been selected by a +skilful hand; and this he is enabled to do, merely from the appearance +of the wood and leaves. Many new sorts have lately been obtained and +brought into notice in this country; and this facility of the peach to +multiply its varieties will no doubt be taken advantage of by +propagators. + +_The Nectarine_.--This, it is allowed by all writers, is certainly a +child of cultivation: there being no wild plant from which it could be +derived, except the almond. It is therefore a collateral branch with, +or rather of, the peach: of this no better proof can be given, than +the circumstance that nectarines are sometimes produced by a peach +tree. + +_The Orange_.--This endless family of fruits it is probable had the +small but useful wild lime for its progenitor. The monstrous shaddock, +citrons of all shapes and sizes, oranges and lemons, are all +varieties, obtained in the course of long cultivation. + +(_To be concluded in our next_.) + + * * * * * + + + + +THE GATHERER. + +"I am but a Gatherer and disposer of other men's stuff."--_Wotton_. + + * * * * * + + +TO CHLOE, AT SIXTY. + + + Those teeth, as white as orient pearls + Stolen from th' Indian deep, + Those locks, whose light and auburn curls + Soft on thy shoulders sleep, + Expose a woman to the sight + None but old friends can know; + Thy locks were grey, thy teeth not white, + Some twenty years ago. + + + * * * * * + + +Wilkes used to say, that a gentleman did not always require a footman +to carry a parcel, for there were three things which he might always +carry openly in his hand,--a book, a paper of snuff, and a string of +fish. + + * * * * * + + +HEREDITARY TALENT IN ACTORS. + +"Families are chequered as in brains, so in bulk."--FULLER. + + +The children of many obscure performers have become eminent: but there +are very few instances in which the descendant of a considerable actor +or actress has been distinguished. To take instances within recent +recollection, or of the present day, for example--Mr. Elliston has a +son upon the stage: with none of the striking talent of the father. +Mr. Henry Siddons, the son of Mrs. Siddons, was a very bad actor +indeed. Lewis had two sons upon the stage, neither of them of any +value. Mr. Dowton has two sons (or had), in the same situation. And +Mrs. Glover's two daughters will never rise above mediocrity. On the +other hand, Mr. Macready and Mr. Wallack, are both sons of very low +actors; and the late Mr. John Bannister and Mr. Tokely were similarly +descended. Almost the only modern instance of the immediate descendant +of a valuable performer turning out well, was in the case of Mrs. +Jordan's daughter, Mrs. Alsop; who was very nearly as good an actress +as her mother. We doubt, too, if there is an instance on record of a +very young man being a considerable actor. + + * * * * * + + +PRISON TORTURE. + + +A horrible instance of human vengeance occurred a short time since, at +Minden, in Westphalia. The object was a person who, from conscientious +motives, peculiar to the religious body of which he was a member, had +refused to serve in the militia. He was placed in a cell, the floor and +sides of which were closely studded with projecting spikes, or pieces of +sharpened iron resembling the blades of knives. The individual remained +in this state for twenty-four hours, and the punishment was repeated +at three distinct intervals. It is considered a rare occurrence for a +person to survive the second infliction of this species of cruelty. +In this instance, however, the sufferer did not perish--_From the last +Report of the Prison Discipline Society_. + + * * * * * + + +THE DUCHESS OF DEVONSHIRE. + + +As her Grace was one day rambling in the neighbourhood of Chiswick, +she was overtaken by a violent storm, and accordingly took shelter, +in a cottage where she happened to be unknown. Among other topics she +introduced with her usual affability, she asked the poor woman if +she knew the Duchess of Devonshire? "Know her, (answered the woman,) +_everybody_ has cause to know her here; never was there a better lady +born." "I am afraid you are mistaken, (said her Grace); from what I +understand of her, she is no better than she should be." "I am sure +_you_ are no better than you should be, (returned the poor woman,) to +find fault with the Duchess; but you'll never be worthy to wipe her +shoes." "Well then, (rejoined her Grace,) I must be beholden to _you_, +as they are at present very dirty." The good woman perceiving the +awkward mistake, ran to perform the office with great humility, and +received an ample reward. + + * * * * * + + +KITCHEN CONUNDRUM. + + + "Come Thomas," says Kitty, "pray make us a pun,-- + You're goodnatured and never refuse;" + + "Ask coachee," says Tom, "_he's_ the fellow for Fun,-- + For he knows the way to _a-mews_." + + Says coachee, "Why Thomas you puzzle my brains, + For you never can bridle your wit;" + + "But how comes it, that I, tho' exposed to the _reins_ + Ev'ry day, never _suffer a bit_?" + + * * * * * + + +DEAR TIMES. + + +After the union with Ireland, when the Irish members had taken their +seats, one of them, in the heat of his maiden speech, blustered out, +"Now, dare Mr. Speaker," which, of course, set the house in an +immoderate fit of laughter. When the tumult had subsided, Sheridan +observed, "that the honourable gentleman was perfectly in order, +since, thanks to the ministry, everything at that time was +immoderately _dear_." + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, +and Instruction., by Various + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MIRROR OF LITERATURE, NO. 280 *** + +***** This file should be named 11369.txt or 11369.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/1/3/6/11369/ + +Produced by Jonathan Ingram, Keith M. 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